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THE  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS. 


A 


The  imitation 

OF  THE  SACRED 
HEART  OF  JESUS 


~V 


Rev.  Peter  J.  Arnoudt,  S.J. 


BOSYftN  COLLEGE  LIBRAKt 
CHESTNUT  HILL,  MASS. 


BENZIGER  BROTHERS,  Inc. 

Printers  to  the  Holy  Apostolic  See 

NEW  YORK,  BOSTON,  CINCINNATI,  CHICAGO, 
SAN  FRANCISCO 


mibil  ©bstat, 


TtEMY  LAFORT, 

Censor  Librorum , 


Umpnmatur. 

>f«  JOHN  M.  FARLEY, 

Archbishop  of  New  York, 


New  York,  March  30,  1904 

BX  2- 


175047 


Copyright,  1904,  by  Benziger  Brother** 

Printed  in  the  United  States  of  America. 


CONTENTS 


PAGE 

Testimony  of  those  that  have  officially  given 

THEIR  OPINION  OF  THIS  WORK  - - - - - 1 7 

Translator’s  preface 19 

Prologue 23 

Directory  for  the  First  Book  - - - - 27 

THE  FIRST  BOOK. 

ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  FOR  PURIFYING  THE 

HEART . 

CHAPTER  I. 

The  foundation  - 43 

CHAPTER  II. 

That  no  object  in  this  world  can  set  our  heart  truly  at 
rest,  or  make  it  truly  contented  - - - - 48 

CHAPTER  III. 

That  in  the  Heart  of  Jesus  our  heart  may  find  true  rest, 
unalloyed  felicity  - - - - - - - 50 

CHAPTER  IV. 

That  it  is  necessary  for  salvation,  to  imitate  the  Heart  of 
Jesus 53 

3 


4 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  V. 

That  all  our  perfection  consists  in  imitating  the  Heart  of 
Jesus  - 


CHAPTER  VI. 

That  whoever  desires  to  imitate  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  must 
purify  his  own  heart  - 

CHAPTER  VII. 

That  our  heart  must  especially  be  clean  from  mortal  sin, 
the  greatest  of  evils  - 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

That  our  heart  must  also  be  free  from  the  least  sin  - 
CHAPTER  IX. 

That  the  heart  of  the  sinner  can  taste  only  the  bitterness 
of  misery  -------- 


CHAPTER  X. 

That  the  Heart  of  Jesus  invites  all,  even  sinners  - 
CHAPTER  XI. 

How  the  cleansing  of  the  heart  is  to  be  undertaken  - 
CHAPTER  XII. 

That  the  holy  Sacrament  of  Penance  is  an  easy  and  ef- 
fectual means  of  cleansing  one’s  self  from  sins  and 
vices  - --  --  --  -- 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

That  for  the  forgiveness  of  our  sins  we  must  firmly  rely 
upon  our  Lord,  after  we  have  sincerely  done  wrhat  was 
morally  in  our  power  ------ 


PAGE 

55 

58 

62 

66 

7° 

74 

78 

83 

91 


CONTENTS. 


5 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

How  we  must  guard  against  a relapse 
CHAPTER  XV. 


PAGE 

95 


How  the  roots  of  vices  and  defects  are  to  be  wholly 
plucked  up  "99 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

That  he  who  desires  to  follow  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  must 
also  withdraw  his  heart  from  the  world  - 

CHAPTER  XVII. 

How  deceitful  the  world  is  - 


106 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 
That  to  serve  the  world  is  a cruel  slavery 

CHAPTER  XIX. 

That  the  yoke  of  Jesus  is  truly  sweet 

CHAPTER  XX 


That,  without  keeping  anything  tor  ourselves,  we  should 
give  our  whole  heart  to  Jesus  - - - - 12 1 


- no 


114 


- 117 


CHAPTER  XXI. 
Of  watching  over  our  heart 

CHAPTER  XXII. 
Of  the  shortness  of  this  life  - 

CHAPTER  XXIII. 


I25 


129 


Of  death 


134 


6 


CONTENTS. 


Of  judgment 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 

m 

PAGE 

* 139 

Of  hell  - 

CHAPTER  XXV. 

« 143 

Of  heaven 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

Directory  for  the  Second  Book  ....  152 

THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  FOR  THE  IMITATION 
OF  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  IN 
HIS  ACTIVE  LIFE. 

CHAPTER  I. 

How  we  should  esteem  and  cherish  sanctifying  grace  - 162 
CHAPTER  II. 

Why  the  Son  of  God  wished  to  become  incarnate  - 168 

CHAPTER  III. 

That  our  heart,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred 
Heart  of  Jesus  incarnate,  must  be  wholly  devoted  to 

God  - ---------  173 


CHAPTER  IV. 

That  we  must  be  taught  by  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus, 
newly-born,  and  be  imbued  with  Its  Spirit  - - 178 

CHAPTER  V. 

That,  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  whilst  an  in- 
fant, we  must  learn  humility  - - - - - 182 


CONTENTS. 


7 


CHAPTER  VI. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  born  in  a stable, 
teaches  us  holy  poverty  ------ 

CHAPTER  VII. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  dwelling  in  soli- 
tude among  the  Angels,  teaches  us  holy  chastity  - 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

That,  from  the  manger,  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus 
teaches  us  holy  obedience  - 

CHAPTER  IX. 

That,  at  the  Circumcision,  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus 
teaches  us  mortification  of  heart  - 

CHAPTER  X. 

That,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  adored  by  the  Magi,  we  should  overcome  all 
human  respect  ------- 


CHAPTER  XI. 

That  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  presented  in  the 
Temple,  we  should  learn  to  have,  in  all  things,  a right 
intention  - - --  --  --  - 


CHAPTER  XII. 

Of  the  freedom  of  heart,  which  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  in  His  flight  into  Egypt,  teaches  us 

CHAPTER  XIII. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  going  up  into  the 
Temple,  teaches  us  to  pray  - 


PAGE 

191 


197 


203 


210 


217 


223 


230 


2 36 


8 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

PAGE 

Of  the  love  of  solitude,  after  the  example  of  the  most 
Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  abiding  at  Nazareth  - - 244 

CHAPTER  XV. 

Of  the  divine  Presence,  wherein  we  are  taught  to  live  by 
the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  bap- 
tized - - - - - - - - - -251 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  tempted  in  the 
desert,  teaches  us  ever  to  preserve  peace  of  heart  - 258 

CHAPTER  XVII. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  entering  upon  His 
public  life,  teaches  us  zeal  for  souls  - - - - 266 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  present  at  the  mar- 
riage-feast in  Cana,  teaches  us  spiritual  joyfulness  - 274 

CHAPTER  XIX. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  conversing  with 
men,  teaches  us  to  bear  with  the  defects  of  our  neighbor  280 

CHAPTER  XX. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  acting  toward  all 
with  the  greatest  open-heartedness,  teaches  us  to  act 
with  simplicity  in  regard  to  our  neighbor  - 285 

CHAPTER  XXI. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  showing  to  men 
the  sweetness  of  humble  charity,  left  us  a model  which 
we  should  follow  - - - - - - -292 


CONTENTS. 


9 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

PAGE 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  living  in  the  world, 
teaches  us  so  to  dwell  in  the  world,  that  we  be  neither 
of  the  world,  nor  harmed  by  it  - - - 299 

CHAPTER  XXIII. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  requiring  faith  in 
His  Disciples,  teaches  us  to  live  the  life  of  faith  - - 304 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  promising  salvation 
to  them  that  persevere,  and  the  means  of  salvation  to 
them  that  pray  with  confidence,  teaches  us  to  lead  the 
life  of  hope  - - - - - - - -312 

CHAPTER  XXV. 

That  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  enjoining  love  on 
ail,  teaches  us  to  lead  a life  of  divine  love  - - - 318 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  teaches  us  to  exert 
ourselves  to  make  progress  in  virtue  - - - 326 


Directory  for  the  Third  Book  - - - 334 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  TO  IMITATE  THE  MOST 
SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  HIS  LIFE  OF 
SUFFERING. 


CHAPTER  I. 

How  greatly  we  should  esteem  holiness,  and  how  much 
we  should  strive  after  it  -----  344 

CHAPTER  II. 

That  in  this  life  no  one  can  live  without  suffering  - - 352 


to 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  III. 

PAGE 

How  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  felt  disposed  in  re- 
gard to  sufferings  - - - - - - “357 

CHAPTER  IV. 

tVhat  advantages  there  are  in  suffering  well  - 364 

CHAPTER  V. 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, we  must  conform  ourselves  amidst  afflictions  to  the 
divine  Will  - --  --  --  - 369 


CHAPTER  VI. 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  teaches  us  in  afflic- 
tion to  have  recourse  to  prayer  - - - - - 376 

CHAPTER  VII. 

How  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  teaches  us,  amid 
tribulation,  to  use  the  aid  of  creatures  - 382 

CHAPTER  VIII. 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  we  should  suffer  the  opposition  and  persecution 

of  men  - --  --  --  --  387 


CHAPTER  IX. 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, wre  should  bear  to  be  forsaken  by  persons  who  are 
serviceable  or  needful  to  us  - - - - - 394 

CHAPTER  X. 

How  we  may  imitate  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus 
made  a prisoner  -------  400 


CHAPTER  XI. 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, it  behooves  us  to  bear  false  accusations  - - 406 


CONTENTS. 


II 


CHAPTER  XII. 

PAGE 

That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  teaches  us  how  we 
ought  to  bear  personal  insults  - - - - -412 

CHAPTER  XIII. 

How  it  behooves  us  to  imitate  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  so  far  as  to  be  willing  to  be  considered  as  fools, 
with  Him  and  for  His  sake  - - - 419 

CHAPTER  XIV. 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, we  should  be  willing  to  be  placed  below  all  - -425 

CHAPTER  XV. 

How,  by  voluntary  mortifications,  it  behooves  us  to  fol- 
low the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  scourged  - - 431 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

How,  from  the  example  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, we  should  learn  to  endure  bodily  ailments  and 
pains 437 


CHAPTER  XVII, 

How,  after  the  example  of  the  most  sacred  Heart  of  Je- 
sus, we  ought  to  accept  death  - 444 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 

With  what  disposition  of  heart,  after  the  example  of  the 
most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  we  ought  to  feel  affected 
toward  the  cross  - - - - - - -451 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

That  Jesus  crucified  by  praying  for  His  executioners, 
manifests  the  infinite  goodness  of  His  Heart  toward 
sinners,  and  that,  by  grievous  sin,  these  crucify  Him 
anew  - --  --  --  --  458 


1 2 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  XX. 

PAGE 

That  Jesus,  by  forgiving  from  His  Heart,  the  thief,  and 
by  promising  Paradise  to  him,  teaches  us  how  we 
should  endure  anxiety  concerning  our  eternal  salvation  464 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

How  great  a tenderness  of  heart  Jesus  manifested  toward 
us,  when  He  gave  us  His  own  Mother  as  our  mother  - 470 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


That  Jesus,  forsaken  upon  the  cross,  teaches  us  how  to 
act,  when  we  are  exposed  to  temptations  - - “477 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

That  Jesus,  in  His  abandonment,  thirsting  and  not  re- 
lieved,  shows  us  how  we  should  deport  ourselves  in 
spiritual  desolation  - - 488 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

That  Jesus  accomplishing  all  upon  the  cross,  teaches  us 
to  accomplish,  in  like  manner,  all  things  upon  the 
cross  ----------  496 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

That  Jesus  commending  His  Spirit  into  the  hands  of  His 
Father,  teaches  us  how  we  must  wholly  give  up  our- 
selves to  Him  -------  501 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

The  Heart  of  Jesus,  after  His  death  opened  for  love  of 
us,  is  the  refuge  and  solace  of  all  - - - - - 505 


CONTENTS. 


*3 


PAGfi 

Directory  for  the  Fourth  Book  - - - 510 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


ADMONITIONS  HELPFUL  TOWARD  UNITING 
ONE’S  SELF  WITH  THE  HEART  OF  JESUS  IN 
BLISS. 

CHAPTER  I. 

The  most  Blessed  Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist  is  an  in- 
vention of  the  love  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  - 519 

CHAPTER  II. 

Of  the  marvelous  institution  of  the  most  Blessed  Sacra-  52^ 
ment  of  the  Eucharist  - 


CHAPTER  III. 

With  how  lively  a faith  the  Church  has,  always  and 
everywhere,  manifested  her  devotion  to  the  most 
Blessed  Sacrament 


CHAPTER  IV. 


That  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  the  Sacrament 
of  His  love,  is  perfectly  blissful  - 


54° 


CHAPTER  V. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  is  the  heart  of  His  holy 
Church  -- - 546 


CHAPTER  VI. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  unites  the  Church  mili- 
tant on  earth,  with  the  Church  triumphant  in  heaven  554 

CHAPTER  VII. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  unites  together  the 
Church  that  suffers  in  purgatory,  with  the  militant  and 
triumphant  Church  - 5 6c 


*4 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

PAGE 

Of  the  ineffable  occupations  of  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  in  the  Sacrament,  with  respect  to  His  Father  - 565 

CHAPTER  IX. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  the  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment, honors  His  Father  infinitely  - - - - 570 

CHAPTER  X. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  by  its  self-offerings  in 
the  most  holy  Sacrament,  appeases  the  divine  justice, 
and  procures  for  us  measureless  graces  - - - 576 

CHAPTER  XI. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  the  Sacrament  of 
His  love,  is  our  greatest  consolation  on  earth  - - 582 

CHAPTER  XII. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  Its  Sacramental,  as 
formerly  in  Its  mortal  life,  whilst  instructing  men, 
does  not  cease  to  teach  that  He  is  meek  and  humble  - 589 

CHAPTER  XIII. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  willed,  that  the  most 
holy  Eucharist  should  be  an  enduring  remembrance  of 
His  Passion,  and  an  everlasting  memorial  of  His  love 
displayed  therein  -------  594 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  displays  in  this  wonder- 
ful Sacrament  the  sum  and  substance  of  all  d;vine 
mysteries  -------  600 


CHAPTER  XV 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  the  most  Blessed  Sac- 
rament of  the  Eucharist,  leads  us  to  the  divine  per- 
fections -----  - 609 


CONTENTS. 


IS 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

PAGE 

How  great  a reverence,  both  outward  and  inward,  the 
Heart  of  Jesus  wills  us  to  have  for  the  most  Blessed 
Sacrament-  - - - - - - - - 619 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

That  we  should  endeavor  by  every  means  to  atone  for 
the  insults,  which  are  offered  to  the  most  Sacred  Heart 
of  Jesus  in  the  Sacrament  of  His  love  - - - - 626 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 

That  we  must  prove  ourselves  before  we  approach  the 
holy  Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist  - 633 

CHAPTER  XIX. 

How  we  ought  to  prepare  ourselves  for  holy  Communion  640 

CHAPTER  XX. 

What  we  must  do  after  we  have  received  the  Blessed  Sac- 
rament --------  - 649 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  the  bountiful  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Eucharist,  gives  us  a remedy,  whereby  we 
are  freed  from  venial  and  preserved  from  mortal  sins  658 

CHAPTER  XXII. 

By  holy  Communion  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus 
unites  us  with  Himself,  and  makes  us  live  through 
and  for  Him  --------  665 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  through  holy  Commun- 
ion, perfects  His  union  with  us,  and  transforms  us 
into  Himself  - --  --  --  - 670 


i6 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

PAGE  \ 

Through  holy  Communion  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus  bestows  upon  us  the  gift  of  perseverance  - 676 

CHAPTER  XXV. 

Through  holy  Communion  the  most  Sacred  Heart  of 

Jesus  gives  us  a pledge  of  future  glory  - - - - 682  \ 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

Recapitulation.  The  most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus  is  our 

all - 687 

Memento  - - --  --  --  - 697 

Epilogue  --------  - 698 


TESTIMONY 


OF  THOSE  THAT  HAVE  OFFICIALLY  GIVEN 
THEIR  OPINION  OF  THIS  WORK. 


Opinion  of  the  Very  Rev.  Father  Roothaan,  General  of  the 
Society  of  Jesus. 

(From  a letter  of  his  Paternity  to  the  Author.) 

Rev.  Father  in  Christ.  P.  C. — 

Some  time  since  I received  the  manuscript  (bearing  date 
1846)  of  a work  written  by  your  Reverence,  and  entitled, 
“The  Imitation  of  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus.”  I 
was  highly  delighted  with  the  subject  of  the  Book,  and 
the  zeal  of  your  Reverence  to  promote  a devotion  so  use- 
ful and  so  much  recommended.  ...  I hope  that  this 
work  of  your  Reverence  will  be  printed  for  the  good  of  the 
faithful . 


Opinions  of  the  Censors  in  America. 

1.  “I  have  examined  the  little  work  entitled,  ‘The 
Imitation  of  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus.’  It  pleases 
me  very  much,  and  appears  well  fitted  to  enkindle  in  the 
hearts  of  the  Faithful  a love  for  the  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,  to  supply  abundant  matter  for  meditation,  and  point 
out  the  path  to  every  kind  of  virtue  and  perfection.  Nor 
do  I judge  that  anything  hinders  it  from  being  published, 
much  less  do  I think  that  there  is  in  it  aught  contrary  to 
Faith  or  good  morals.” — First  Cens.  Prof,  of  Mor.  TheoL 

17 


TESTIMONY. 


1 8 


2.  “I  have  read  the  work  entitled,  The  Imitation 
of  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,’  in  four  books.  And 
first,  the  Author’s  subject — which  may  furnish  abundant 
fruit  to  the  person  that  reads  it,  or  meditates  thereon — 
pleases  me.  Again,  the  manner  in  which  the  author 
follows  up  his  subject,  is  complete.  Thirdly,  the  style 
itself  shows  a natural  simplicity,  which  is  agreeable.  Nor 
do  I see  what  more  can  be  desired  in  this  little  work. 
Neither  did  I discover  anything  which  may  offend  against 
Faith,  or  sound  and  pure  morals.” — Second  Cens.  Prof,  of 
Dogm.  Theol. 

3.  “I  have  read  the  book  entitled,  ‘The  Imitation  of 
the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,’  and  find  it  very  well  adapt- 
ed to  awaken  the  desire  of  perfection,  and,  at  the  same 
time,  such  as  to  direct  the  reader  how  to  walk  without 
stumbling  in  the  way  of  perfection.” — Third  Cens.  D.  D. 

4.  “Let  this  work  be  printed;  it  will  lead  souls  to  sanc- 
tity.”— Fourth  Cens.  Sup. 


TRANSLATOR’S  PREFACE. 


The  Book,  which  is  here  presented  to  the  English- 
speaking  public,  is  one  of  those  works  which  possess  a 
merit  of  their  own.  The  general  favor  with  which  it 
has  been  received  throughout  Europe,  and  the  high 
commendations  bestowed  upon  it,  leave  no  room  for 
doubt  that  it  will  be  equally  welcomed  in  America, 
where  it  was  originally  composed.  The  circumstances 
under  which  it  was  begun  are  incidentally  alluded  to 
by  the  author,  in  the  Epilogue. 

If  care,  study  and  meditation  are  indispensable  in 
the  production  of  a solid  work,  the  author  has  added 
to  these  even  more  than  the  advice  of  the  Roman  bard: 
“nonumque  prematur  in  annum,”  since  it  was  fin- 
ished so  long  ago  as  1846.  No  wonder,  then,  if  it  is  a 
Book  of  rare  merit,  and  worthy  of  keeping  company 
with  the  immortal  “Following  of  Christ/’  of  the  ven- 
erable a Kempis.  This  work  it  resembles  in  teaching 
the  highest  practical  truths,  but  it  differs  from  the 
same,  in  that  it  is  more  regular  in  plan;  more  com- 
plete, actual,  definite. 

r9 


20 


translator’s  preface. 


To  appreciate  the  “Imitation  of  the  Sacred  Heart  of 
Jesus,”  it  should  not  merely  be  read  once  and  again: 
it  should  be  used  as  a constant  and  cherished  guide  to 
point  out  to  us  how,  in  every  circumstance  of  life,  we 
may  learn  to  avail  ourselves  of  God’s  favors  and  dis- 
pensations, to  lay  up  treasures  in  heaven. 

To  understand  this  we  need  only  refer  to  the  gen- 
eral design  of  the  work.  It  takes  a person  at  the 
beginning,  lays  down  before  him  Ihe  groundwork  of 
the  interior,  the  spiritual  life;  and  proceeds  methodi- 
cally to  lead  him,  step  by  step,  through  its  mysterious 
pathways,  until  it  brings  him  to  the  very  summit  ot 
Christian  perfection.  Nor  is  this  done  by  simply  in- 
culcating abstract  theories  and  sublime  teachings: 
our  Lord  is,  throughout,  introduced,  placing  before  us 
the  living  example  of  His  Heart,  and  applying,  prac- 
tically and  in  detail,  His  own  lessons. 

The  very  soul,  so  to  speak,  of  the  work  is  the  love 
of  the  Heart  of  Jesus.  Other  virtues  form,  as  it  were, 
the  body.  Certain  leading  principles,  like  so  many 
veins  pervading  all,  complete  the  whole.  These  lead- 
ing principles  are  the  mainspring  of  the  spiritual  life. 
The  chief  among  them  may  be  said  to  be:  a great 
purity  of  heart  and  horror  of  sin — avoiding,  however, 
a false  delicacy,  or  scrupulousness  of  conscience, — an 
unfeigned  esteem  of  genuine  virtue,  a generous  spirit 
of  self-denial,  an  ardent  affection  for  prayer,  a perfect 
resignation  to  the  divine  Will,  a true  idea  and  apprecia- 


TRANSLATOR’S  PREFACE. 


21 


tion  of  the  Church  and  her  mission  upon  earth,  and, 
consequently,  a sincere,  a childlike  devotion  to  her; 
in  fine,  a real  zeal  for  the  salvation  of  others  and  for  ail 
the  interests  of  Jesus,  with  whom  the  soul  has,  in  some 
manner,  become  identified.  But,  in  order  to  realize 
all  this,  the  reader  should  give  proper  attention  to  the 
Directory,  placed  before  each  of  the  four  Books. 
This  is  an  essential  portion  of  the  work,  and  exceed- 
ingly well  adapted  to  enable  us  to  reap  from  it  the  in- 
tended spiritual  profit. 

Whence  it  appears  that  the  work  possesses  no  ordi- 
nary solidity;  and,  in  truth,  for  directors  of  souls,  for 
religious,  yea,  for  every  Christian — who  desires  to 
make  progress  in  virtue  and  perfection — it  should  be- 
come an  inseparable  companion. 

As  regards  its  English  dress,  the  translator  would 
state,  that  it  has  been  his  principal  aim  to  give,  as 
far  as  possible,  the  exact  meaning  of  the  author,  pre- 
ferring this  to  elegance  of  style  and  diction — as  more 
useful  and  appropriate.  If  he  contribute,  in  any 
wise,  to  increase  among  Christians  the  knowledge,  the 
honor,  the  love  of  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  he  will 
deem  his  labors  amply  rewarded. 


PROLOGUE. 


i.  The  most  ancient  special  devotion  of  Christians 
is  doubtless  that  of  the  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  the  Son 
of  God.  The  holy  Sacraments  and  the  other  objects 
of  devotion  did  not  yet  exist,  when  the  Blessed  Virgin 
Mary  found  her  delight  in  worshiping  the  most  Sweet 
Heart  of  her  Jesus;  already  did  Holy  Joseph  clasp 
that  Heart  to  his  bosom ; even  then  were  the  Shepherds 
and  the  Magi,  Simeon  and  Anna,  the  Apostles  and  the 
Disciples  attracted  to  It  and  by  It:  they  longed  to 
shew  to  It  the  affection  and  love  of  their  hearts.  But 
after  Jesus  had  called  upon  all  men  to  learn,  “that  He 
is  meek  and  humble  of  Heart;”  after  He  had  drawn 
from  the  treasury  of  His  heart  that  best  of  all  gifts,  the 
Sacrament  of  the  Most  Blessed  Eucharist;  lastly, 
after  He  had  willed  that,  upon  the  cross,  His  Heart 
should  be  opened,  and  continue  open,  as  a place  of 
refuge  for  all;*  then  was  devotion  to  His  divine  Heart 
wonderfully  increased.  The  Apostles  now  spread  it 
throughout  the  world  as  a special  worship.  Thence- 
forth, the  Fathers  of  the  Church  themselves  practiced 
it  most  tenderly,  and  commended  it  most  carefully  to 
others.  The  Saints  of  every  after  age  became  devoted 
disciples  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus.  But  when  came  the 
fullness  of  time,  at  which  He  had  decreed  to  pour  forth 

23 


24 


PROLOGUE. 


all  the  riches  of  His  Heart,  the  goodness  and  kindness 
of  the  Saviour  were  made  manifest,  and  Himself  re- 
vealed His  wish  that,  thereafter,  this  devotion  should 
be  a most  especial  one;  since  He  declared  and  prom- 
ised that  He  would  lavish  the  abundance  of  His  graces 
upon  ail  who  should  consecrate  themselves  to  the  wor- 
ship of  His  Heart. 

2.  The  object  of  this  worship  is  the  Heart  Itself  of 
Jesus.  And  since  in  Jesus  Christ  there  are  two  natures, 
Che  divine  and  the  human,  and  only  one  person,  the 
iivine  Person;  the  Heart  of  Jesus  Christ  is  the  Heart 
af  the  divine  Person,  the  Heart  of  the  Word  Incarnate. 
And  because  the  divine  Person  is  to  be  honored  with 
the  highest  worship;  the  worship  to  be  paid  to  the 
Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  which  can  neither  be  separated 
nor  taken  away  from  the  divine  Person,  is  likewisf 
supreme.  This  is  a Catholic  truth,  which  has  pre 
vailed  over  all  contrary  errors. 

3.  The  end  of  this  devotion  is  threefold.  The  first, 
to  make  Jesus  a return  for  that  boundless  love,  of  which 
His  Heart  is  the  symbol,  that  made  Him  do  so  much 
and  suffer  so  immeasurably  for  our  sake;  and  induced 
Him  to  bestow  upon  us  that  sweetest  and  most  pre- 
cious of  all  gifts,  the  Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist.  The 
second,  that,  through  the  fervor  of  our  piety,  we  mav, 
as  far  as  we  can,  make  amends  for  all  the  insults  which 
have  been,  or  are  even  now  offered  to  His  most  Sacred 
Heart,  which  He  exhibits  to  us  as  the  throne  of  His 
affections.  The  third,  that  imitating  what  we  worship, 
we  may  be  inspired  with  the  same  affections,  the  same 
sentiments  that  animated  His  Heart  during  His  life  of 
toil  and  suffering,  and  still  animate  It  m His  blissful 
and  Sacramental  life. 

4.  From  its  antiquity,  object,  and  manifold  end,  it 


PROLOGUE. 


25 


is  plain  that  this  devotion  is  most  excellent,  most  profit- 
able, most  solid,  and  most  consoling.  But  since  to 
imitate  what  we  worship  is  the  abridgment  of  religion, 
and  since  the  other  ends  are  contained  and  reduced  to 
practice  in  a true  Imitation;  therefore,  in  order  to  insist 
on  this  Imitation,  and,  as  far  as  it  is  allowed,  to  direct 
tu3  sa  ne,  this  little  volume  is  presented  to  all. 

5.  Tnis  work,  which  contains  a summary  of  As- 
cetic Theology,  and  embraces  the  doctrine,  as  well  as 
the  practice,  of  the  spiritual  and  interior  life,  will  sup- 
ply a mple  m.atter  for  daily  meditation,  throughout  the 
wnole  year.  In  this  manner  the  reader  will  be  enabled 
to  repeat  it  every  year,  to  examine  it  more  closely,  and 
to  impress  it  more  deeply  on  his  mind  and  heart.  He 
can,  if  it  so  pleases,  start  from  the  beginning  and  con- 
tinue to  the  end  of  the  work ; or  he  may,  whilst  going 
on  irom  the  beginning,  occasionally  break  off  this  or- 
der, either  when  some  necessity  or  advantage  invites 
him  to  some  portion  specially  adapted  to  his  present 
feelings;  or  when,  on  the  days  on  which  he  approaches 
holy  Communion,  his  devotion  suggests  the  last  Book 
as  better  suited  to  his  actual  circumstances. 

6.  For  very  weighty  reasons,  things  are  not  pro- 
posed here  in  general  and  in  common,  as  is  usually 
done  in  books  for  meditation,  but  everything  is  laid 
down  specially  and  in  particular,  both  in  regard  to 
the  evdl  to  be  avoided,  and  the  good  to  be  practiced. 
First,  that  the  reader  may  not  be  left  in  uncertainty 
or  beating  the  air,  aiming  and  grasping  at  whatever 
presents  itself  by  the  way,  and  yet  gain,  or  secure 
nothing.  Secondly,  that  having  assiduously  before 
his  eyes  something  determinate,  he  may  direct  his 
strength  and  efforts,  as  well  in  time  of  prayer  and 
meditation  as  during  self-e/ animation  and  the  per- 


26 


PROLOGUE. 


formance  of  good  works,  to  this,  that  he  subdue  what 
is  to  be  subdued,  that  he  acquire  what  is  to  be  acquired. 
Lastly,  that  by  destroying  separately  those  things 
which  are  the  causes,  or,  as  it  were,  the  roots  of  other 
evils,  he  may  the  more  easily  and  the  more  effica- 
ciously demolish  the  rest;  and  that,  by  learning  and 
acquiring  separately  those  capital  virtues  of  which,  in 
the  lowliness  and  charity  of  His  Heart,  Jesus  has  given 
us  the  example,  he  may  the  more  readily  and  the  more 
certainly  obtain  all  other  virtues. 

7.  What  regards  the  manner  of  writing,  although  it 
is  most  true,  that  the  testimony  of  Christ  must  not  be 
announced  in  loftiness  of  speech  or  wisdom,  since  the 
kingdom  of  God  consists  not  in  speech  but  in  virtue; 
yet,  it  seemed  proper  to  attend  carefully  to  two  things: 
first,  that  the  style  should  everywhere  be  suited  to  the 
subject;  secondly,  that  the  diction  should  be  suffi- 
ciently pure. 

8.  Finally,  it  must  be  observed,  that  the  character 
of  this  little  work  is  such,  as. to  require,  not  that  it 
should  be  read  in  public  to  others,  but  that  every  one, 
who  desires  to  use  it,  may  read  it  privately  to  himself 
alone.  For  its  form,  its  reasoning  demand  that,  in 
order  to  relish  it,  you  should,  in  some  manner,  con- 
verse alone  with  Jesus,  face  to  face,  heart  to  heart. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


1.  Whoever  desires  to  gather  for  himself  the  whole 
fruit  of  this  work,  must  rightly  understand  the  aim 
of  each  Book,  properly  apply  the  means  proposed, 
and  diligently  strive  to  surmount  the  obstacles  to  the 
attainment  of  this  aim.  Wherefore,  in  regard  to  these 
things,  we  shall  briefly  and  clearly  lay  down  before 
every  Book  that  which  may  serve  to  direct  you  with 
safety. 

2.  The  aim  of  the  first  Book  is,  to  teach  you  how 
to  free  the  heart,  first,  from  the  stains  of  sin,  after- 
wards from,  the  love  of  a corrupt  world,  and  lastly, 
from  the  inordinate  affection  for  self.  And  this  may 
be  understood  in  three  ways,  and  reached  through  as 
many  degrees. 

And  first,  it  is  required  that  you  free  your  soul  from 
every  mortal  sin,  and  from  the  love  of  the  world  and 
every  ill-regulated  affection  for  yourself,  so  far  as 
actually  to  prefer  God,  your  Creator  and  Saviour, 
before  all  things;  and  consequently,  to  be  unwilling, 
for  anything  whatsoever,  to  offend  mortally  the  Di- 
vine Majesty. 

Secondly,  that  you  cleanse  your  heart  from  every 
deliberate  venial  sin,  and  from  the  love  of  the  world 
and  the  ill-regulated  affection  for  self,  so  that  not  even 


28 


DIRECTORY  FOR  FIRST  BOOK. 


to  obtain  all  things  created,  nor  even  to  preserve  life 
itself,  you  would  commit  any  deliberate  venial  sin. 

Thirdly,  that  you  purify  yourself  from  those  im- 
perfections which  a great  fidelity  to  divine  grace  may 
enable  you  to  avoid ; and  that  you  so  dispose  yourseL* 
as  to  abhor  the  world,  and  to  detest  every  inordinate 
affection  for  self. 

Whence  it  follows  that  all,  they  that  begin,  they 
that  are  advanced,  yea  the  perfect  themselves,  may 
profitably  make  use  of  this  book  and  go  over  it  again 
and  again.  For,  “ Believe  me,”  says  St.  Bernard, 
“things  cut  off  sprout  forth  again,  what  is  driven  off 
returns,  what  is  put  out  is  again  enkindled,  and  what 
lies  slumbering  is  again  awakened.  It  is  therefore  but 
little  to  have  pruned  once,  the  pruning-knife  should  be 
applied,  yea,  if  possible,  always;  if  you  are  in  earnest, 
you  will  always  find  something  which  needs  pruning.” 

Here  it  must  carefully  be  observed,  that  a perfect 
cleansing  of  the  heart  is  a matter  of  the  utmost  im- 
portance, whereon  almost  everything  in  the  spiritual 
life  depends.  The  chief  reason  why  there  are  so  few 
who  find  the  path  of  virtue  easy  and  pleasant;  so  few 
who  continue  to  advance  readily  and  perseveringly; 
so  few  who  attain  to  the  divine  union ; so  few,  in  fine, 
who  even  in  this  life  enjoy  the  good  things  which  the 
Lord  has  here  promised  to  the  clean  of  heart, — is, 
because  so  few  do  perfectly  cleanse  their  interior 
Many  there  are  who  labor  much  and  make  little 
progress:  they  are  often  obliged  to  begin  anew;  they 
scarcely,  or  almost  never,  taste  the  sweetness  of  virtue* 
they  carry  the  cross,  but  do  not  experience  its  unction 
And,  although  they  may  at  last  be  saved,  yet  for  all  eter- 
nity, they  deprive  God  of  a great  glory,  and  themselves 
of  an  immense  bliss,  which  they  could  easily  have 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK.  29 

merited,  had  they  cleansed  themselves  perfectly. 
Wherefore,  there  is  hardly  anything  which  the  demcn 
strives  more  to  hinder  than  a complete  cleansing  of 
die  heart.  He  suffers  us  quietly  enough  to  practice 
virtues,  and  even  to  apply  ourselves  to  perfection,  pio- 
vided  we  neglect  purity  of  heart.  For  he  knows,  that 
in  this  way  we  will  fall  into  delusions,  and  never  acquire 
genuine  and  solid  virtues,  much  less  true  perfection 
Now,  this  is  the  common  illusion,  against  which  souls, 
that  are  not  yet  well  purified,  should  especially  be  on 
their  guard:  They  desire  namely,  after  a superficial 
cleansing  of  the  heart,  forthwith  to  deal  on  terms  of 
intimacy  in  the  interior  life  with  Jesus,  to  be  enter- 
tained with  Him  amid  the  flowers  of  virtues,  and  to 
taste  the  most  delicious  fruits:  or,  which  is  still  more 
dangerous,  neglecting  perfect  purity  of  heart,  they 
aspire  to  the  enjoyment  of  internal  union  with  Jesus, 
so  full  of  love  and  sweetness.  There  are  other  illu- 
sions, to  which  souls  that  enter  upen  the  spiritual  life 
are  exposed;  for  example:  they  practice  external 
mortification  even  to  excess;  they  wish, — with  a mind 
in  some  manner  interiorly  stubborn,  and  through  a 
certain  violence, — to  be  freed  from  something  that  is 
irksome  to  them,  or  to  acquire  that  for  which  they  long ; 
they  keep  up  fear,  even  unto  down-heartedness.  But 
these  things,  although  dangerous,  are  not  so  common 
nor  baneful,  as  that  whereby  a person  is  induced  to 
overlook  interior  purity. 

3.  To  this,  therefore,  you  must  direct  all  your  en- 
deavors. First,  having  well  understood  that  you  are 
called  to  true  bliss  everlasting,  learn,  as  perfectly  as 
possible,  all  the  malice  and  all  the  evil  of  sin,  and  feel, 
in  some  manner,  in  your  soul  all  the  deformity  caused 
in  you  by  sin ; secondly,  acquire  as  perfect  a knowledge 


3° 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


as  possible  of  the  vanity  and  wickedness  of  the  world, 
and  comprehend  most  intimately  the  lamentable  fate 
of  those  that  suffer  themselves,  of  their  own  accord,  to 
be  forever  utterly  destroyed  by  the  world;  thirdly, 
have  a true  knowledge  of  your  own  self, — what  you 
have  made  yourself  through  your  offenses,  how  mis- 
erable you  are  of  yourself,  and  to  what  you  tend  of 
yourself. 

To  attain  to  all  this,  it  is  not  enough  to  read  the 
Book  in  a hasty  manner,  but  you  should  meditate 
with  attention  and  diligence  on  what  is  said,  and  reduce 
it  to  practice.  For,  in  this  work  things  are  not  so 
much  unfolded  as  pointed  out:  first,  in  order  that  you 
may  reflect  thereon,  and  endeavor  to  develop  and  apply 
the  same  to  yourself;  secondly,  that  you  may  stir  up 
the  affections  of  your  heart,  and  ask  of  the  Lord  what- 
ever you  may  need,  according  to  the  state  of  your  soul; 
lastly,  that  you  may  secure  an  inward  relish  and  gather 
more  abundant  fruit.  For,  by  thus  meditating,  by 
pious  desires,  by  earnest  prayer,  you  shall  understand 
the  matter  more  clearly,  and  apply  it  with  more  profit; 
and,  in  return,  the  Lord,  according  to  the  generosity  of 
His  Heart,  will  reward  your  endeavors,  and  bless  them 
with  His  grace.  All  which  is  to  be  understood  as  re- 
ferring not  to  the  first  Book  only,  but  to  the  others 
likewise. 

4.  There  are  two  methods  of  using  this  first  Book: 
each  of  which  is  perfectly  safe  and  easy,  as  is  proved 
by  the  experience  of  very  many,  even  uneducated  per- 
sons, who  are  wont  to  spend  whole  hours  in  medita- 
tion, without  weariness  and  with  much  fruit. 

The  first  method  is  mainly  suitable  for  beginners, 
who,  not  yet  accustomed  to  mental  prayer,  cannot 
keep  up  a continuous  reasoning;  nothing,  however, 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK.  31 

hinders  others  from  employing  this  same  method,  par- 
ticularly when  they  do  not  feel  themselves  properly 
disposed  to  make  deeper  reflections. 

First,  therefore,  recite  a preparatory  prayer,  which 
may  always  be  the  same,  and  as  follows:  “Gather 
unto  Thee,  Lord  Jesus,  all  my  senses;  cleanse  my 
heart  from  all  evil  and  unbecoming  thoughts;  en- 
lighten my  understanding,  inflame  my  heart,  that, 
during  this  prayer,  I may  employ  attentively  and  de- 
voutly the  senses  of  my  body  and  the  powers  of  my  soul, 
for  Thy  glory  and  my  salvation;  and  that,  through 
Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  I may  deserve  to  be  heard  in 
the  sight  of  Thy  Divine  Majesty.  Amen.  Lord 
Jesus,  in  unison  with  that  divine  intention  of  Thy 
Heart,  whereby  Thou  didst  pay  to  God  the  tribute  of 
Thy  praise,  Ioffer  to  Thee  this  prayer.”  After  which, 
place  yourself  before  the  Lord,  in  some  appropriate 
mystery,  or  as  dwelling  in  the  holy  Tabernacle. 
Finally,  beg  fervently  of  Him  the  fruit  of  the  prayer 
which  you  are  about  to  make.  These  three  things 
constitute  the  beginning  or  introduction  of  the  medi- 
tation, in  whichsoever  manner  it  is  made. 

Next,  if  you  make  use  of  the  first  method  of  prayer, 
first,  read  slowly  and  attentively  one  or  more  verses, 
according  as  you  may  find  it  necessary  or  useful; 
secondly,  consider  how  true  that  is  which  you  have 
just  now  read;  how  true  all  the  Saints  deemed  it,  as 
well  as  all  they  that  were  anxious  to  deliver  their  souls 
from  everlasting  perdition,  and  to  save  them  for  eter- 
nity; how  true  you  yourself  will  think  it  at  the  moment 
of  death;  thirdly,  examine  yourself,  endeavoring  to 
discover  what  has  hitherto  been,  in  practice,  your  con- 
duct concerning  it;  if  good,  return  thanks  to  the  Lord, 
and  ascribe  to  Him  all  the  glory,  and  do  not  neglect  to 


52 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


beg  for  grace  to  be  enabled  to  persevere  in  well-doing, 
yea,  to  act  even  better  and  more  perfectly;  if,  on  the 
contrary,  evil,  grieve,  excite  an  act  of  contrition,  ask 
pardon;  fourthly,  form  a good  resolution  of  correcting 
yourself,  or  making  progress  for  the  better:  select 
means  adapted  to  this  purpose,  and  ask  for  grace  to 
execute  your  resolve.  This  being  done,  if  the  allotted 
time  for  meditation  is  not  elapsed,  pass  over  to  other 
verses,  following  the  same  order. 

But  if  you  make  use  of  the  second  method  of  medita- 
tion, after  the  aforesaid  introduction,  i,  exercise  your 
memory,  either  by  reading  or  recalling  to  mind  the 
matter  of  the  meditation;  2,  exercise  the  understand- 
ing, first,  by  reasoning  on  the  subject  of  the  medita- 
tion, proceeding  through  causes  and  effects;  secondly, 
by  investigating  what  practical  applications  can  be 
drawn  therefrom;  thirdly,  what  reasons  or  incitements 
urge  you  to  this;  fourthly,  how  you  have  acted  till  now; 
fifthly,  what  is  to  be  done  for  the  future;  sixthly,  what 
obstacles  should  be  removed;  seventhly,  what  means 
must  be  chosen;  3,  exercise  the  will,  first,  by  stirring 
up  pious  and  appropriate  affections  and  making 
internal  acts;  secondly,  by  forming  good  specific 
resolutions,  adapted  to  the  present  state  of  your  soul; 
thirdly,  by  earnestly  imploring  grace  for  yourself  and 
for  others. 

Lastly,  1,  a colloquy  is  made  with  Jesus  by  an  out- 
pouring of  heart;  2,  the  concluding  prayer  is  recited 
after  this  manner:  “Lord  Jesus  Christ,  who  didst 
deign,  by  a new  favor  to  Thy  Church,  to  disclose  the 
unspeakable  riches  of  Thy  Heart,  grant,  I beseech 
Thee,  that  I may  be  able  to  correspond  to  the  love  of 
this  most  Sacred  Heart,  make  atonement  by  worthy 
homage  for  the  insults  offered  by  thankless  men  to  Thy 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


33 


most  afflicted  Heart,  and  be  inspired  in  all  things  with 
the  sentiments  of  the  same  Heart ; who  livest  and  reign- 
est  with  God  the  Father  in  the  unity  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  God  world  without  end.  Amen”;  3,  finish 
by  recommending  yourself  to  the  Most  Blessed  Virgin 
Mary,  to  your  Angel  Guardian  and  your  holy  Patrons. 
These  three  things  form  the  end  or  close  of  every  kind 
of  meditation. 

Since  experience  proves  that  the  examples  of  the 
Saints  exercise  a wonderful  and  saving  influence,  on 
the  hearts  of  sinners  as  well  as  of  the  just,  they  are 
frequently  brought  forward.  But,  to  meditate  on 
these  with  more  fruit,  you  should  consider  some  par- 
ticular Saint  or  Saints,  wThom  you  choose  for  Patron, 
or  to  wfliom  you  entertain  a special  devotion.  For  dif- 
ferent persons  are  edified  and  moved  by  different  ex- 
amples : thus  a religious  is  wTont  to  know  better,  and  to 
study  more,  the  lives  of  the  Saints  of  his  Order;  and 
they  that  live  in  the  wrorld  and  strive  to  serve  Gcd,  feel 
more  devotion  to  those  Saints  whose  example  seems 
better  adapted  to  themselves.  When,  therefore,  the 
Saints  are  said  to  have  done  something  after  the  ex- 
ample of  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  or  to  have  been  distin- 
guished in  some  specialty,  you  ought  to  select  in  your 
mind  some  particular  Saint,  and  see  wfliat  he  did,  and 
how  he  acted;  implore  his  intercession  with  God,  and 
recommend  yourself  to  him.  And  if  no  Saint  occurs 
to  you  at  the  time,  you  can  always  recall  the  example 
of  the  most  Blessed  Virgin  Mary,  and  beg  her  inter- 
cession and  protection. 

5.  Then,  in  order  to  guard  against,  or  overcome 
the  obstacles  which  the  enemy  of  your  everlasting 
happiness  throws  in  your  way,  and  which  are  wont  to 
relate  to  conscience;  you  should,  first,  rightly  under- 


34 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


stand  what  is  meant  by  conscience.  Now,  conscience 
is  the  dictate  presented  through  reason,  which  in- 
wardly warns,  or  shows  us,  in  particular  cases,  what  is 
to  be  done  or  omitted,  and  this  either  under  pain  of  sin, 
because  it  is  a matter  of  precept;  or,  on  account  of  an 
increase  of  merit,  or  the  greater  good-pleasure  of  God, 
because  it  is  only  a matter  of  counsel.  It  is  called  a 
dictate  presented  through  reason;  because  it  is  a prac- 
tical conclusion  deduced  from  principles,  known  to 
reason,  either  by  the  light  of  nature,  or  of  grace  or 
faith.  For  example:  My  conscience  tells  me,  that 
to-day  (Sunday)  I am  obliged  to  hear  Mass.  This  is 
deduced  from  these  implied  premises:  On  Sundays 
there  is  an  obligation  of  hearing  Mass:  but  to-day  is  a 
Sunday ; therefore,  to-day  there  is  an  obligation  of  hear- 
ing Mass.  But  it  must  be  remarked  that  an  inference 
of  this  kind  is  secretly  drawn,  and  presented  to  man, 
even  in  spite  of  himself:  as  is  made  manifest  in  those 
who  are  unwilling  to  listen  to  the  voice  of  conscience, 
lest  they  be  deterred  from  things  wherein  they  unlaw- 
fully indulge,  or  lest  they  be  disturbed  in  them.  For 
it  is  altogether  against  their  will  that  they  hear, 
that  conscience  forbids  something  and  condemns  them. 
Hence  it  appears  that  conscience,  when  really  such,  is 
independent  of  man  and  superior  to  him. 

He  that  is  too  prone  to  timidity  or  scrupulousness, 
should  here  carefully  observe  and  learn,  that  con- 
science is  not  an  agitation  of  the  nerves,  nor  a repre- 
sentation of  the  fancy,  nor  a vague  fear,  nor,  finally, 
the  possibility  of  a case.  On  the  other  hand,  he  that 
is  too  inclined  to  laxity  or  to  rashness,  should  observe, 
that  a desire  of  the  will,  the  propensity  or  aversion  of 
nature,  that  some  passion,  or,  lastly,  some  subtle  arti- 
fice, is  not  conscience.  But  let  them  both  remember. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


? C 
O o 


that  conscience  is  the  dictate  presented  through  reason, 
or  the  voice  of  the  Spirit  of  God,  who  speaks  to  us  in- 
wardly by  reason,  as  an  interior  organ,  and  makes 
known  to  us,  in  particular  cases,  His  Will  that  com- 
mands, or  His  good-pleasure  that  counsels. 

Conscience  is  true  or  right.  A right  conscience  is 
that  one,  which  shows  things  as  they  are  in  reality;  as 
commanded  or  obliging,  what  is  commanded;  as 
dangerous,  what  is  dangerous;  as  counseled  or  better, 
what  belongs  to  counsel  or  perfection.  This  con- 
science, if  we  follow  it  in  such  a manner  that,  from  a 
holy  fear  of  God,  — whereby  like  good  children  wTe 
dread  to  offend  God, — we  avoid  sins  which  destroy 
His  friendship,  or  His  paternal  good-will  towards  us, 
i is  called  a fair  conscience.  But,  if  w^e  are  so  faithful 
that,  at  its  bidding,  wre  guard  against  every  voluntary 
j defect,  and  are  obedient  to  the  same  in  all  things,  it  is 
i called  a delicate  conscience. 

Again,  conscience  may  be  false  or  erroneous.  Such 
j is  that  one  which  showrs  things  falsely  or  differently 
from  what  they  are  in  truth.  This  happens,  for  the 
most  part,  through  the  fault  of  man,  who  viciates  the 
instrument  of  wThich  the  Spirit  of  God  makes  use,  so 
that  it  does  not  transmit  the  divine  voice.  Ignorance, 
the  habit  of  sin,  every  inordinate  passion,  spoils  it  more 
or  less.  Or,  to  speak  more  plainly,  ignorance,  the 
habit  of  sin,  every  inordinate  passion,  have,  each  by 
itself,  the  effect  of  causing  something  false  or  trifling, 
to  be  assumed  as  one  of  the  principles  from  wThich  a 
practical  inference,  or  conscience,  is  deduced.  Whence 
it  happens,  that  such  a conscience  is  the  voice,  not  of 
the  Spirit  of  God;  but  of  another  spirit,  that  uses 
passion,  or  any  of  those  other  causes,  to  speak  to  man’s 
interior. 


36  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 

If  conscience  errs  by  our  voluntary  fault,  it  is  styled 
vincibly  erroneous,  and  makes  us  guilty  of  the  errors. 
Now,  it  is  vincibly  erroneous,  through  our  voluntary 
fault,  if,  when  we  put  an  act,  or  the  cause  of  an  act,  a 
knowledge  or  a doubt  of  an  error  occurs  to  the  mind, 
and  the  obligation  of  avoiding  the  error  is  noticed,  and 
when,  over  and  above,  ordinary  diligence  to  know  the 
truth  is  neglected.  But,  if  conscience  errs  without 
such  a fault  on  our  part,  it  is  called  invincibly  erroneous, 
and  does  not  make  us  guilty  in  the  sight  of  God. 

To  erroneous  conscience  belong  likewise,  both  the 
scrupulous  and  the  lax  conscience,  being  the  opposite 
extremes.  A scrupulous  conscience  is  that  which 
believes  it  sees,  and  even  when  corrected,  persists 
in  believing,  that  it  sees,  sin  where  there  is  no  sin;  it 
errs  for  the  most  part,  because  a soul  gives  in  to  the 
imagination,  to  the  obstinacy  of  her  own  judgment, 
or  some  passion  which  fetters  the  heart ; whence,  being 
inwardly  agitated  and  perplexed,  she  sees  objects  dif- 
ferently from  what  they  really  are,  or  confounds  one 
thing  with  another,  precepts  with  counsels,  things 
probable  with  possible,  sin  and  its  danger  with  the 
appearance  or  semblance  of  sin  and  danger. 

A lax  conscience,  on  the  other  hand,  is  the  con- 
science of  a soul  that  persuades  herself  that  she 
does  not  see — and,  even  when  warned,  continues  to 
persuade  herself  that  she  does  not  see — sin,  or  the 
danger  of  sin,  where  it  really  exists.  An  individual 
falls  into  this  error  because  he  has  a mind  which 
labors  under  culpable  ignorance,  or  a sin  to  which 
he  is  habitually  addicted;  or  because  he  indulges  a 
passion  by  which  he  covets  or  abhors  something 
inordinately.  Whence  it  happens,  that  he  who  has 
uich  a conscience  is  blamable ; because  he  can  guard 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


37 


against  errors  by  removing  their  cause;  which  he 
must  certainly  do  when  he  sufficiently  perceives  the 
obligation  of  removing  the  same. 

We  should  guard,  with  the  greatest  care,  as  well 
against  a scrupulous,  as  against  a lax,  conscience. 
Both  are  not  only  dangerous,  but  destructive:  the 
one,  as  well  as  the  other,  hinders  perfection,  and  ren- 
ders it  impossible:  and,  what  is  more  to  be  dreaded, 
both  are  wont  to  expose  salvation  itself  to  the  dan- 
ger of  perdition.  Wherefore,  let  every  one  be  care- 
ful to  have  a right  conscience. 

But,  to  commit  a formal  sin,  or  a sin  by  which 
God  is  offended  and  man  becomes  guilty,  it  is  neces- 
sary, first,  that  the  act,  whether  internal  or  external, 
by  which  sin  is  committed,  either  through  commis- 
sion or  omission,  be  evil  or  unlawful,  or  is  consid- 
ered -as  evil  or  unlawful  by  conscience;  seccndly, 
that  his  mind,  when  he  does  the  act,  or  puts  the 
cause  of  the  act,  advert  to  the  moral  evil  of  the 
act,  or  see  that  the  act  is  unlawful;  thirdly,  that 
the  will,  whilst  he  possesses  the  internal  liberty  of 
choosing  between  consent  and  dissent,  knowing  that 
the  act  is  evil  or  unlawful,  freely  consent  thereto. 
For,  if  he  does  an  internal  or  external  act,  the  moral 
evil  of  which  he  does  not  notice,  either  when  he 
does  the  act,  or  puts  the  cause  of  the  act;  he  in- 
deed wills  or  can  will  the  act,  but  not  as  morally 
evil,  while  he  does  not  see  that  the  same  is  unlaw- 
ful. For  nothing  is  willed  that  is  not  known. 
Wherefore,  by  willing,  or  doing,  such  an  act,  he 
commits  only  a material  sin,  which  is  nothing  else 
than  an  error  of  a conscience,  invincibly  erroneous 
whereby  God  is  not  offended  and  man  not  rendered 
guilty 


38  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 

To  commit  a mortal  sin,  it  is  required,  as  not 
only  the  theologians,  but  the  Saints  also  teach,  first, 
that  the  internal  or  external  act  be  grievously 
evil,  or  deemed  grievously  evil  by  conscience;  sec- 
ondly, that,  when  he  does  the  act  or  puts  the  cause 
of  the  act,  the  mind  do  fully  advert  to  the  grievous 
evil  of  the  act;  thirdly,  that  the  will,  knowingly 
and  freely,  give  its  consent.  If  one  of  these  three 
things  be  wanting,  the  sin,  which  would  otherwise 
be  mortal,  is  venial. 

No  one  commits  a formal  sin  in  spite  of  his  will: 
for  man  cannot  sin,  formally,  except  by  his  own  free 
will.  He  can,  however,  if  he  so  wills,  through  an 
abuse  of  his  free  will,  think  evil  or  that  which  is 
unlawful;  propose  or  imagine  it  to  himself,  give  his 
consent  thereto,  and  commit  sin.  Moreover,  the 
demon  can,  with  the  Divine  permission,  and  really 
does,  cause  in  him  thoughts  and  imaginations,  evil 
ones  too,  that  he  may  entice  him  to  give  the  con- 
sent of  the  will;  but  he  can  never  force  him  to  con- 
sent. Finally,  God  Himself,  His  good  and  blessed 
Spirits  are  wont  to  suggest  thoughts,  and  to  pro- 
pose objects,  but  always  to  induce  man  to  good: 
they  assist  his  will  to  do  good,  but  they  never  force 
him. 

Whence  it  appears,  that  in  man  there  is  a triple 
kind  of  thoughts  and  emotions;  the  first,  spring- 
ing from  the  free  will  of  man  himself;  the  second, 
thrown  in  from  without  by  the  demon,  the  evil 
spirit;  the  third,  also  suggested  from  without,  but 
by  the  good  Spirit.  Now  then,  “ By  their  reason- 
ings we  shall  know  them:  and  the  suggestion  itself 
r ill  make  known  which  spirit  it  is  that  speaks”  (St. 
Bern.) — The  following  rules,  which  the  Saints 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


39 


/ay  down  for  the  discernment  of  Spirits,  will  help 
you  to  understand  this  matter: 

I.  To  them  that  easily  sin  mortally,  the  evil 
spirit  is  commonly  wont  to  suggest,  or  propose  the 
seeming  delights  of  the  flesh,  sensual  pleasures; 
that  thereby  he  may  hold  them  more  securely  in 
his  service,  and  plunge  them  deeper  into  sins  and 
vices. 

Towards  such  persons  the  good  Spirit  pursues 
the  opposite  course:  he  continually  stings  and  dis- 
turbs their  conscience;  that  he  may  render  them 
conscious  of  the  unhappy  state  of  their  soul,  may 
deter  them  from  sin,  and  convert  them. 

II.  By  deceitful  counsel  and  cunning,  the  evil 
spirit  endeavors  to  lead  man  to  an  inordinate  love 
and  greediness  for  riches,  or  the  superfluity  of  pos- 
sessions, that,  afterwards,  he  may  cause  him  to  fail 
more  easily  into  sin. 

But  the  good  Spirit  whispers,  that  the  heart 
should  be  kept  free  from  the  inordinate  love  and 
eagerness  for  earthly  possessions,  lest  it  be  entangled 
by  them. 

III.  The  evil  spirit  allures,  presses,  persists,  in 
order  to  induce  man  to  aspire  to  vain  honors. 

The  good  Spirit  places  before  him,  and  teaches, 
generous  humility,  the  true  and  safe  glory  of 
man. 

IV.  To  them  that  perceive  the  needfulness  of 
their  devoting  themselves  to  their  everlasting  sal- 
vation, and  who  begin  seriously  to  think  of  securing 
the  same,  the  evil  spirit  is  wont  to  suggest  a cer- 
tain shame,  or  human  respect,  that  he  may  check 
:hese  good  beginnings. 

The  good  Spirit  encourages  and  stimulates  them, 


40 


DIRECTORS  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


that,  spurning  all  human  considerations,  they  may 
bravely  go  forward. 

V.  To  those  who  are  sincerely  careful  to  cleanse 
themselves  from  faults  and  vices,  and  who  advance 
more  and  more  in  the  desire  of  serving  God,  the 
evil  spirit  suggests  molestations,  scruples,  sadness, 
false  reasonings,  and  other  annoyances  of  this  kind, 
that  thereby  he  may  hinder  their  progress. 

The  good  Spirit,  on  the  contrary,  is  wont  to  sup- 
ply strength  and  courage  to  those  that  act  rightly 
or  endeavor  to  do  well,  to  enlighten  their  mind,  to 
pour  in  consolation,  to  give  peace  and  tranquillity, 
that  they  may  ever  the  more  readily  and  cheerfully 
by  means  of  good  works,  continue  to  make  further 
progress. 

VI.  With  all  his  might  does  the  evil  spirit  strive 
that  the  soul,  which  he  desires  to  deceive  and  to 
lead  to  ruin,  do  keep  secret  his  wily  suggestions. 
He  exerts  himself,  as  much  as  he  is  able,  that  his  at- 
tempts be  not  made  known  to  a spiritual  director; 
since  he  knows  that,  in  this  event,  he  fails  in  them. 

But  the  good  Spirit  loves  light  and  order,  be- 
cause he  acts  fairly,  and  his  works  are  good. 

VII.  The  evil  spirit  is  accustomed  to  conduct 
himself  like  a commander  in  war.  For  as  this  one 
examines  the  arrangements,  and  reconnoitres  the 
strength  of  the  citadel  which  he  desires  to  take,  and 
assails  it  on  the  weakest  side;  so  the  evil  spirit  ex- 
plores our  disposition  and  all  ouv  virtues,  both  theo- 
logical and  moral,  and  at  whatever  point  he  finds 
us  weaker,  there  he  is  wont  to  attack  and  try  to 
take  us  by  storm. 

VIII.  The  evil  spirit,  the  tempter,  is  wont  to 
lose,  altogether,  his  courage  and  strength,  whenever 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


4> 


he  sees  his  spiritual  antagonist,  struggling  with  a 
bold  front  and  unterrified  heart  against  temptations* 
but,  on  the  contrary,  if  he  perceives  that  he  trem- 
bles, and,  as  it  were,  loses  courage,  there  is  no  wild 
beast  on  earth  more  fierce  or  headstrong  against 
man  than  this  same  enemy,  in  order  to  accomplish 
the  desire  of  his  wicked  and  perverse  mind. 

St.  Ignat.,  St.  Thom.,  St.  Teres/. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  FOR  PURIFYING 
THE  HEART. 


CHAPTER  I. 

THE  FOUNDATION. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Learn  of  Me  because  I 
am  meek  and  humble  of  Heart;  and  ye  shall  find 
rest  for  your  souls. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — These  are  the  words 
of  Jesus  Christ,  whereby  we  are  commanded  to 
learn  and  imitate  the  Virtues  of  His  Heart,  that 
we  may  be  set  free  from  all  misery  of  soul,  and  be 
made  truly  happy. 

This  is  His  doctrine,  this  is  the  method  of  learn- 
ing, this  is  the  fruit,  this  is  the  end. 

The  first  inducement  to  learn  is  the  excellence 
of  the  Master.  What  is  there  more  excellent  than 
the  Son  of  God,  who  alone  is  our  Master,  appointed 
by  His  eternal  Father,  in  whom  also  are  all  the 
treasures  of  the  wisdom  and  knowledge  of  God? 

His  doctrine  is  the  truth,  surpassing  all  the  arts 
and  sciences  of  this  world:  it  smooths  the  way  not 
to  some  perishable  wealth,  some  passing  pleasures, 


44 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


or  a short-lived  renown:  but  to  boundless  riches, 
that  cease  not  to  last,  to  unuttered  delights,  that 
are  constant,  to  honors  supreme,  that  endure  for- 
ever. 

Whatever  He  taught  us  to  do,  He  reduced  to  one 
lesson:  Learn  of  Me  because  I am  meek  and  hum- 
ble of  Heart:  this  He  adapted  to  all  men,  this  He 
gives  to  all,  that  all  may  learn  the  same,  the  little 
as  well  as  the  great;  knowing  full  well  that  in  this 
precept,  if  rightly  understood  and  kept,  are  con- 
tained all  things  necessary. 

His  whole  life  was  the  application  of  this  doc- 
mine,  which  He  began  to  practice,  before  He  taught 
it  to  others. 

2.  Let  us  learn  this  short  lesson,  and  we  shall  be 
wise  enough,  and  sufficiently  instructed;  nor  shall 
we  have  to  look  for  any  thing  more. 

The  method  of  learning  consists  in  action,  which 
is  performed  in  two  ways:  by  studying  and  by 
practicing. 

But  first,  in  order  to  understand  what  we  strive 
to  learn,  and  reduce  to  practice  what  we  have  un- 
derstood, we  must  pray  earnestly. 

Afterwards,  we  must  diligently  revolve  in  our 
mind  the  depth,  the  hight,  the  breadth  of  the 
lesson;  keeping  unceasingly  before  our  eyes  the 
divine  likeness  of  our  Master,  and  examining  what 
we  ought  to  amend,  what  to  avoid,  what  to  hold, 
and  to  what  to  aspire. 

Lastly,  since  it  is  not  enough  to  know,  but  we 
must  also  practice,  the  lesson,  as  it  wholly  con- 
sists in  action,  and  can  only  be  perfectly  learnt 
by  acting;  we  must,  as  soon  as  we  begin  to  learn, 
also  begin  to  practice,  showing  ourselves  before 


CHAPTER  I. 


45 


God  and  men,  meek  and  humble  of  heart  in  thought, 
word  and  deed. 

And,  whilst  we  progress  in  understanding  and 
practice,  we  should  so  labor  that  the  spirit  of  the 
lesson  unfold  itself  ever  more  perfectly  in  the  plan 
of  our  life,  in  our  inmost  feelings,  in  our  conversa- 
tions, in  our  every  action,  yea,  in  the  very  modifi- 
cations of  the  same. 

3.  If,  after  this  manner,  we  learn  what  our  Lord 
has  given  us  to  learn,  we  shall  reap  the  fruit, 
whereby  our  zeal  and  toil  shall  most  certainly  be 
rewarded,  according  to  the  promise  of  Him  who 
cannot  possibly  deceive  nor  be  deceived. 

Which  is  that  promised  fruit  ? Of  all — the 
most  desirable.  Ye  shall  find  rest,  says  He.  And 
wdiat  is  it,  to  find  rest  ? 

Nothing  less  than  to  find  that  with  which  we  may 
repose,  filled  and  satisfied;  without  any  need  to  seek 
for  aught  more,  and  without  fear  of  ever  losing  it, 
against  our  will. 

Whoever  shall  have  found  this  rest,  will  be  truly 
calm  and  happy:  but  he  that  finds  it  not,  whatever 
else  he  may  possess,  shall  ever  be  restless  and  un- 
happy; because  in  his  heart  he  is  not  satisfied,  is 
obliged  to  seek  for  more,  and  is  ever  in  danger  of 
losing,  even  against  his  will,  what  he  has  acquired. 

We  are  all  so  framed  that,  by  nature,  we  are  com- 
pelled to  covet  a blissful  repose;  neither  have  we 
it  in  our  power  not  to  desire  the  same. 

A great  blessing  it  doubtless  was,  that  the  Lord 
placed  within  us  this  awakening  desire,  this  urging 
power;  for,  more  firmly  in  action,  more  gently  in 
manner,  do  we  by  its  means,  pursue  that  which  is 
to  make  us  happy. 


4 6 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


And  although,  by  the  freedom  of  our  will,  we 
are  enabled  to  seek  rest  in  a variety  of  things;  yet 
will  this  longing  of  ours,  this  power,  importune  and 
drive  us  onward,  until  we  find  the  object  for  the 
seeking  and  attaining  of  which  this  faculty  has 
been  given  to  us. 

Christ  the  Lord,  our  God,  who  implanted  this 
faculty  in  our  souls,  and  who  would  not  have  given 
us  this  irresistible  faculty  without  an  object,  nor 
have  given  it  without  the  ability  of  attaining  the 
same, — shows  us  here  where  we  should  seek,  and 
how  we  may  find  the  true  object. 

Learn  of  Me  because  I am  meek  and  humble  of 
Heart,  and  ye  shall  find  rest.  He  makes  no  dis- 
tinction, no  exception:  we  shall  then  find  true 
rest,  unalloyed  happiness. 

For  although  our  rest,  our  souPs  happiness,  as  long 
as  we  dwell  here  below,  cannot  be  every  way  complete, 
yet  it  will  be  real;  such  as  the  Lord  promises,  and 
such  as  has  been  experienced  by  numberless  Saints, 
who  were  meek  and  humble  Disciples  of  the  meek 
and  humble  Jesus. 

We  shall  truly  enjoy  that  peace,  which  no  out- 
ward enemy  can  disturb:  we  shah  delight  in  that 
repose,  which  no  inward  agitation  can  disquiet: 
lastly_  we  shall  possess  that  divine  likeness  and 
union,  wherein  is  contained  supreme  happiness, 
yea,  every  good  here  upon  earth,  and  of  which  no 
one  can  deprive  us,  against  our  will. 

4.  Whilst  we  gather  this  fruit,  we  shall,  at  the 
same  time,  secure  our  end,  the  everlasting  bliss  of 
our  souls.  For  He  says:  Ye  shall  find  rest  for  your 
souls. 

If  our  souls  are  ours,  they  are  not  ours  because 


CHAPTER  I. 


47 


we  created  them,  since  He  Himself  created  us,  and 
net  we  ourselves:  but  they  are  ours  because  He 
gave  them  to  us.  In  giving  them  to  us,  He  gave 
them  for  an  end  worthy  of  Himself,  that  we, — after 
He  had  done  what  He  ought,  which  He  always 
does,  since  He  is  infinitely  perfect, — might  act 
jointly  with  Him,  and  thus  gain  for  our  souls  a 
blissful  and  abiding  tranquillity. 

This  then  is  the  end:  everlasting  beatitude  of  the 
soul,  intimately  connected  with  the  glory  of  the 
Lord,  who,  in  creating  her,  had  this  end  in  view. 

For  if  God  is  full  of  glory  in  all  His  works,  how 
glorified  must  He  be,  in  so  great  a work  as  that  of 
the  salvation  of  souls  exulting  forever  in  triumph> 
and  praising  Him  without  ceasing! 

To  attain  this  end,  He  helps  and  strengthens  us  in 
a thousand  ways  and  by  countless  means:  for  this 
He  goes  before  us,  as  a good  father  before  his 
children,  as  a guide  and  companion,  pointing  out  a 
safe  and  pleasant  way,  whilst,  at  the  same  time,  He 
relieves  and  refreshes  us. 

5.  This  being  so,  let  us  joyously  follow  so  great 
and  so  good  a leader.  What  can  be  more  honor- 
able for  us?  Is  it  not  a great  glory  to  follow  the 
Lord?  is  it  not  supreme  honor,  to  be  the  beloved 
Disciples  of  His  Heart  ? 

What  worldly  honor  can  be  imagined,  which  does 
not  become  mere  emptiness,  when  compared  with 
such  a dignity  ? 

Nor  is  there  anything  more  useful,  since  on  it 
depends  our  souPs  rest:  our  happiness  both  in  time 
and  in  eternity.  Now,  this  is  a matter  of  such  impor- 
tance, that  alone  it  deserves  our  attention;  because, 
without  it,  all  other  things  are  useless  and  delusive. 


48 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Lastly,  it  is  sweet  and  easy;  for  His  commands 
are  not  heavy;  since  He  enjoins  such  things,  as 
with  the  means  which  He  affords,  we  cannot  only 
perform,  but  from  the  fulfillment  of  which  no  enemy 
of  our  salvation,  no  obstacles  can  hinder  us. 

And,  if  we  learn  of  the  very  Heart  of  the  Saviour, 
we  draw  from  the  sweetest  fountain  of  love;  so  that 
we  either  do  not  feel  the  labor,  or  if  we  do,  we 
so  cherish  it  as  to  find  it  easy  and  delightful. 

O Jesus,  meek  and  humble  of  Heart!  receive  me, 
I pray  Thee,  as  Thy  Disciple,  the  Disciple  of  Thy 
Heart,  and  grant  me  to  learn  diligently  of  Thee  to 
be  meek  and  lowly  of  heart,  that  thus  I may  find 
rest  for  my  sou),  to  Thy  everlasting  glory. 


CHAPTER  II. 

THAT  NO  OBJECT  IN  THIS  WORLD  CAN  SET  OUR 

HEART  TRULY  AT  REST,  OR  MAKE  IT  TRUUi 

CONTENTED. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  thou  art  cre- 
ated for  happiness.  This  experience  affirms,  this 
reason  proves,  this  faith  teaches. 

Thou  seekest  incessantly  for  happiness,  and  thou 
dost  well.  But  leave  off  seeking  thy  happiness  in 
things  created ; in  them  thou  shalt  not  find  it. 

No  object  of  this  world  can  satisfy  the  longings 
of  thy  heart;  even  shouldst  thou  alone  possess  at 
once  all  things  created,  thy  heart  should  still  be 
empty  and  wretched. 

Things  of  this  earth  awaken  the  thirst  of  the 


CHAPTER  lx. 


4$ 


heart,  they  cannot  allay  it;  yea,  the  more  thou  dost 
possess,  the  more  eagerly  shalt  thou  thirst. 

How  canst  thou  find  in  creatures  that  which  ex- 
ists not  in  them?  can  any  one  give  what  he  does 
not  possess  ? 

2.  Shalt  thou  obtain  what  no  mortal  was  ever 
able  to  obtain?  Behold,  the  wisest  of  men  abounded 
in  all  good  things,  he  was  affluent  with  ever-fresh 
delights,  he  astonished  nations  with  his  boundless 
wealth,  he  had  filled  the  uttermost  lands  with  the 
renown  of  his  glory. 

Yet,  on  account  of  the  void  of  his  heart,  he  is 
forced  to  exclaim:  Vanity  of  vanities,  and  all  is 
vanity. 

Grant  that  thou  possess  whatever  thy  heart  may 
long  for  in  this  world:  that  thou  be  lord  of  the 
whole  earth:  that  all  men  do  thee  honor:  try  all 
things;  and  thou  shalt  find  that  thou  hast  as  yet 
found  nothing,  except  vanity  and  affliction  of  spirit. 

3 Do  not  wonder  at  this,  My  Child:  thy  heart 
is  not  made  for  this  world.  Therefore,  whatevei 
this  world  contains  is  unworthy  of  thy  noble  des- 
tiny and  of  thy  heart’s  affection. 

Thou  art  created  for  greater  things,  thou  art  born 
for  things  everlasting,  thou  art  destined  to  things 
without  limit.  Do  not  then  give  thyself  up  to  what  is 
low  and  mean,  since  thou  art  made  to  rule  forever. 

What  could  it  avail  thee  to  gain  the  whole  world, 
if  thou  shouldst  lose  thy  soul?  Surely,  thou  wouldst 
be  twice  unhappy:  here,  on  account  of  the  wicked 
state  of  thy  conscience,  thou  wouldst  suffer  a tor- 
turing agony;  hereafter,  thou  wouldst  have  to  un- 
dergo misery  everlasting. 

Blessed,  therefore,  is  he  who  spurns  wbatev:-* 


50 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


may  mislead  the  heart;  who  nobly  casts  aside  everv 
obstacle  to  true  felicity;  who,  mindful  of  his  noble 
destiny,  seeks  happiness  above  all  in  his  Creator. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple.  — My  God,  my  Sa- 
viour, Thou  didst  create  me  for  happiness;  hitherto 
I have  not  ceased  to  seek  it,  still  I have  never  yet 
tasted,  nor  have  I ever  yet  found  happiness. 

My  passions  were  ever  and  anon  crying  to  me: 
here  it  is,  or  there.  In  my  madness,  I believed 
them,  and,  blinded  by  my  unruly  desires,  I ran 
hither  and  thither;  but,  instead  of  the  sought-for 
bliss,  I found  wretchedness,  and  tasted  its  bitter- 
ness. 

Ah,  wretched  me!  created  for  happiness  in  Thee 
my  God!  I toiled  in  vain,  whilst  I sought  it  in 
creatures  outside  of  Thee;  and  behold!  I strayed 
still  further  away  from  the  bliss  for  which  I was 
created,  and  I found  wretchedness,  for  which  1 was 
not  made,  and  perished  therein. 

God,  my  Saviour!  open  my  eyes,  that  now  I may 
distinctly  see  this  great  mistake  of  mine;  and  grant 
that,  free  from  error,  I may  effectually  seek  in  Thee 
that  beatitude  which  I cannot  find  in  creatures. 


CHAPTER  III. 

THAT  IN  THE  HEART  OF  JESUS  OUR  HEART  MAY 
FIND  TRUE  REST,  UNALLOYED  FELICITY. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  if  thou  desir- 
est  to  attain  true  felicity,  render  thy  whole  heart 
similar  and  conformable  to  My  Heart. 


CHAPTER  III.  5t 

In  My  Heart  thou  shalt  find  peace  and  tranquil- 
lity, which  the  world  cannot  give  nor  take  away. 

If  once  thou  hadst  entered  perfectly  into  the  in- 
terior of  My  Heart,  thou  wouldst  thence  behold  all 
things  earthly,  such  as  they  are  in  themselves,  not 
as  they  are  esteemed  by  the  foolish  worshipers  of 
the  world. 

Then  thou  wouldst  free  thyself  from  the  irksome 
and  unnecessary  care  of  creatures,  and  think  noth' 
ing  worthy  of  itself,  except  what  is  truly  good. 

2.  Now,  thy  heart,  subject  to  continual  fluctua- 
tion, changes  seven  times  a day,  so  that  at  one  time 
it  is  glad,  at  another  sad;  now  calm,  then  troubled, 
again  inflamed  with  the  love  of  creatures,  and  again 
wearied  with  the  emptiness  of  them;  sometimes  it 
glows  with  fervor,  and  next  it  falls  into  lukewarm- 
ness, and  thus,  like  the  sea,  it  is  ever  changing. 

But,  if  thy  heart  were  united  with  Mine,  a great 
and  enduring  calm  would  suddenly  ensue. 

For,  safe  in  thy  union  with  My  Heart,  as  in  a 
harbor  of  protection,  thou  shouldst  be  enabled  to 
remain  ever  the  same  and  unshaken;  secure 
against  change,  whether  the  winds  of  adversity  or 
of  prosperity  were  blowing. 

If  thou  art  sheltered  in  My  Heart,  no  enemy 
shall  hurt  thee.  The  devil,  indeed,  runs  about, 
seeking  whom  he  may  destroy;  and  many  does  he 
drag  into  destruction;  but  thee  he  shall  not  ap- 
proach, nor  shall  he  disturb  thy  peace. 

3.  Oh  I if  thou  wouldst  acknowledge  the  divine 
gift  1 Oh!  if  thou  wert  willing  to  know  what  good 
things  lie  hidden  therein!  It  does  truly  contain  all 
that  is  needed  for  thy  felicity. 

Continual  peace,  undisturbed  security,  true  joy 


s* 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


of  heart  is  the  portion  of  all  those  that  love  My 
Heart,  and  make  their  abode  within  the  same. 

Of  what  avail  are  riches,  honor,  yea  the  greatest 
delights,  if  the  heart  be  not  satisfied  and  at  rest? 
And  what  can  the  whole  world  give,  except  rest- 
lessness and  sickliness  of  heart  ? 

Wretched  therefore  shalt  thou  be,  whatever  thou 
mayst  possess,  until  thou  shalt  rest  in  Me,  who 
alone  can  give  thee  all. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Experience  has 
taught  me  this,  O Lord;  for  in  all  things  have  I 
sought  peace,  and  nothing  have  I found  except 
trouble  upon  trouble. 

Thou  didst  assuredly  will,  for  Thy  own  sake,  as 
well  as  for  ours,  that  our  heart  should  find  peace  in 
Thee  alone.  For  Thou,  O Lord,  didst  make  our 
heart  for  Thyself:  and  restless  and  unhappy  must 
it  be,  until  it  repose  in  Thee. 

O Heart  of  Jesus  most  sweet!  O Thou  the  delight 
of  the  most  Holy  Trinity!  O Thou  the  joy  of  the 
Angels  and  Saints!  O most  blissful  Paradise  of 
souls!  what  can  I wish  outside  of  Thee,  since  in 
Thee  is  all  that  I can  and  must  desire  ? 

In  Thee,  heaven  has  its  beatitude;  in  Thee,  the 
earth  its  felicity:  since,  then,  Thou  art  the  bliss  of 
all,  why  shouldst  Thou  not  also  be  mine? 

Yes,  indeed,  O sweetest  Heart  of  My  Jesus! 
Thou  art  my  repose,  Thou  art  my  bliss  for  ever- 
more. 


CHAPTER  IV. 


53 


CHAPTER  IV. 

THAT  IT  IS  NECESSARY  FOR  SALVATION,  TO  IMI- 
TATE THE  HEART  OF  JESUS. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  one  thing 
above  all  others  is  necessary,  to  save  thy  soul. 
For  if  she  is  lost,  all  is  lost;  but  if  she  is  saved,  all 
else  is  saved. 

Yet,  thou  shalt  not  attain  thy  eternal  salvation, 
if  thou  do  not  imitate  My  Heart. 

For  those  whom  God  did  foreknow,  He  also  did 
predestinate  to  be  conformed  to  the  image  of  His 
Son, 

Which  is  this  image  of  the  Son  of  God,  where- 
unto  all  those  that  will  be  saved  are  to  be  con- 
formed, if  it  be  not  My  Heart  ? 

It  is  not  given  to  every  one,  to  imitate  My  out- 
ward actions;  nor  does  it  depend  on  man  to  do  the 
wonderful  works,  which  I have  wrought. 

Besides,  by  reason  of  the  diversity  of  men's  con- 
ditions in  life,  all  cannot  follow  My  exterior  man- 
ner of  living;  but  the  interior  dispositions  of  My 
Heart  can  be  imitated  by  all,  the  great  and  the 
small,  the  learned  and  the  ignorant,  in  whatever 
condition  they  may  live. 

If  then  thou  desirest  to  be  saved,  be  conformed 
to  My  Heart;  and  do  thou  reproduce  in  thy  heart, 
whatever  sentiments  animate  Mine. 

2.  Though  thou  shouldst  distribute  thy  possessions 
among  the  poor;  though  thou  shouldst  give  up  thy 
body  to  the  greatest  penances;  though  thou  shouldst 
understand  all  mysteries ; though  thou  shouldst  work 
astonishing  miracles;  if  thy  heart  be  not  after  the 


54 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


likeness  of  Mine,  thou  art  nothing,  and  all  those 
things  shall  avail  thee  nothing  forever. 

By  the  likeness  of  thy  heart  to  Mine  art  thou  to 
be  judged,  and  thence  is  thy  eternal  state  to  be  de- 
termined. 

But,  at  the  judgment,  many  will  say:  Lord,  have  we 
not  in  Thy  name  prophesied?  have  we  not  cast  out 
devils?  have  we  not  wrought  many  wonders?  And 
I will  say  to  them:  I know  you  not:  do  ye  see  the 
wounds  which  ye  have  inflicted?  Do  ye  recognize 
the  Side,  which  ye  have  pierced,  and  which  for 
your  sake  remained  open;  yet  ye  would  not  enter 
into  the  same? 

Whatever,  therefore,  thou  mayst  do,  it  avails  thee 
nothing,  unless  thou  do  it  according  to  My  Heart. 

3.  Not  the  outward  appearance  of  piety,  but  a 
devoted  heart  makes  a man  truly  good,  and  dear  to 
Me. 

Thou  wilt  place  thy  salvation  in  security,  in  pro- 
portion as  thou  dost  conform  thy  heart  to  My 
Heart. 

Do  for  thy  salvation  whatever  thou  art  capable 
of  doing:  no  zeal  can  be  too  great,  when  an  eter- 
nity is  at  stake. 

When  thou  art  about  to  die,  thou  shalt  find  that 
everything  is  lost,  whatsoever  thou  mayst  have 
done;  unless  thou  didst  direct  it  to  Me,  and  to  thy 
salvation. 

If,  then,  thy  everlasting  salvation  is  of  the  greatest 
importance,  remember,  as  much  as  thy  salvation  is 
worth,  so  much  is  the  Imitation  of  My  Heart  to  be 
prized. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O eternal  salvation 
of  the  soul!  important  affair,  thou  alone  art  to  me 


CHAPTER  V. 


55 


supremely  necessary!  Why  am  I in  this  world  if 
not  to  save  my  soul?  Why  was  I redeemed,  why 
furnished  with  so  many  means,  why  loaded  with 
divine  favors,  if  it  was  not  that  I might,  with  more 
ease  and  pleasure,  secure  my  soul’s  salvation? 

But  alas!  I did  not  yet  begin  earnestlv.  that  for 
which  I am  placed  in  this  world.  Ransomed  as  I 
was,  I sold  myself  again  into  a more  disgraceful 
slavery,  and  perished  by  misusing  the  very  means 
and  blessings,  whereby  I might  so  easily  have 
secured  my  salvation  and  my  happiness. 

0 Lord  my  God!  Thou  couldst  most  justly  have 
permitted  that  I should  perish  forever,  and  suffer 
that  never-ending  destruction,  which  my  wickedness 
and  the  wasting  of  Thy  gifts  have  deserved  for  me. 

Yet,  since  the  infinite  goodness  of  Thy  Heart  did 
not  allow  this;  nay  more,  since  by  a new  and  ex- 
ceedingly great  blessing,  Thou  hast  induced  me  to 
value  and  love  the  salvation  of  my  soul;  I will  no 
longer  be  ungrateful,  I will  no  longer  expose  my 
soul  to  everlasting  ruin. 

1 resolve  and  promise  to  co-operate  with  Thy 
Heart’s  most  sweet  designs  of  saving  my  soul,  and 
rendering  her  forever  happy. 


CHAPTER  V. 

THAT  ALL  OUR  PERFECTION  CONSISTS  IN  IMITAT- 
ING THE  HEART  OF  JESUS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  all  thy  perfec- 
tion consists  in  thy  resemblance  to  My  Divine 
Heart. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


56 


For  My  Heart,  which  is  the  Heart  of  the  Word 
of  God,  is  the  standard  of  all  virtues,  is  holiness 
itself. 

Whoever,  therefore,  imitates  my  Heart,  imitates 
God,  his  Saviour,  perfection  itself. 

Now,  since  My  Heart  is  the  model  of  sanctity 
and  the  source  of  every  grace,  thou  shalt  learn  of 
My  Heart,  what  it  behooves  thee  to  do,  that  thou 
mavst  render  thyself  holy;  and  /hou  shalt  draw 
thence  the  necessary  strength  to  effect  this. 

If,  then,  thou  wilt  become  perfect,  imitate  My 
Heart:  the  more  conformed  thou  art  to  It,  the 
more  perfect  shalt  thou  be. 

2.  My  Heart  is  humble:  humility  is  the  founda- 
tion of  true  sanctity. 

If  thou  do  not  learn  humility  of  My  Heart,  thou 
shalt  never  possess  this  virtue;  nor  shalt  thou  know 
aught  of  it  except  the  name. 

And  if  thou  build  the  structure  of  perfection 
upon  aught  else,  it  cannot  be  solid;  and  it  shall  be 
overthrown  by  the  least  breath  of  wind,  and  great 
shall  be  the  fall  thereof. 

Moreover,  My  Heart  is  meek,  full  of  charity 
now,  charity  is  the  perfection  of  holiness. 

But  thy  heart  shall  never  be  inflamed  with 
charity,  unless  it  be  enkindled  by  that  fire  of  love 
wherewith  My  Own  is  burning. 

Woe  to  thee,  if  thou  enkindlest  thy  heart  with 
any  strange  fire!  thou  wilt  indeed  burn,  but  for  thy 
destruction. 

3.  Thou  shalt  never  acquire  solid  virtues,  nor 
attain  true  sanctity,  except  by  imitating  My  Heart. 

Whatever  signs  of  virtue  thou  mayst  display, 
how  devout  soever  thou  mayest  appear:  so  long  as 


CHAPTER  V. 


57 


thy  heart  does  not  imitate  Mine,  all  thy  piety  shall 
be  nothing  more,  than  a mask  thrown  over  thy 
features. 

There  is  no  hope  of  perfection,  unless  thou  pro- 
pose to  thyself  My  Heart  as  a pattern  of  perfec- 
tion. 

4.  So  it  has  been  from  the  beginning  of  the 
world.  For,  in  the  Old  Law,  it  was  foretold  and 
known  of  what  sort  My  Heart  would  be;  and  no 
one  was  numbered  with  the  Elect,  unless  he  had 
foreshadowed  in  his  heart  the  qualities  of  My  future 
Heart. 

And  from  the  beginning  of  the  Church  to  the 
present  time.  My  Heart  was  ever  the  sanctification 
of  the  Apostles,  the  fortitude  of  Martyrs,  the  con- 
stancy of  Confessors,  the  purity  of  Virgins,  the 
perseverance  of  the  Just;  in  short,  the  perfection 
of  all  the  Saints. 

Therefore,  take  courage,  My  Child,  follow  My 
Heart,  whithersoever  I may  lead  thee:  the  more 
closely  thou  shalt  follow  the  same,  the  nearer  thou 
shalt  come  to  complete  perfection. 

On  the  Imitation  of  My  Heart  depends  the  entire 
fulfillment  of  the  Law,  all  sanctity. 

The  constant  endeavor  of  imitating  My  Heart, 
is  a sure  sign  of  predestination. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O sweet  Jesus, 
fountain  of  life  and  grace!  arouse  me,  help  me  to 
understand  and  imitate  Thy  Heart,  the  standard 
of  virtue,  the  pattern  of  sanctity. 

Free  my  heart  from  every  illusion,  from  every 
obstacle:  grant,  that  with  a guileless  and  pure 
heart,  I may  seek  Thee;  that  I may  make  Thy 
interior  thoughts,  the  feelings  of  Thv  Heart,  my 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


58 

own;  t.iat  I may  make  myself  inwardly  similar  to 
Thee. 

Alas!  O Lord,  how  unlike  in  heart  am  I to 
Thee!  How  little  have  I hitherto  labored  to  por- 
tray the  life  of  Thy  Heart  by  my  own! 

Would  that  I had  not  struggled  to  estrange  my 
heart  and  turn  it  away  from  Thine!  O blindness! 
O madness  of  my  soul! 

Have  Thou  pity  on  me,  Lord  Jesus!  have  pity 
on  me,  according  to  the  great  mercy  of  Thy  Heart. 

How  many  there  are,  who  have  not  lived  so  long, 
nor  had  so  many  means,  and  yet  have  sanctified 
themselves  by  becoming  fervent  Disciples  of  Thy 
Heart!  And  I have  not  yet  begun  to  be  holy:  I 
am  still  a sinner! 

It  is  time,  O Lord,  it  is  time  to  begin  the  work 
of  my  sanctification,  which  I have  so  long  neglected. 

This  arouses  me,  this  spurs  me  on,  that  I can 
yet  be  made  holy,  that  I can  yet  become  the  Dis- 
ciple of  Thy  Heart,  that  I can  yet  be  marked  with 
that  most  joyous  sign  of  predestination. 

Cheer  me  up,  Jesus  most  kind,  give  help,  give 
courage:  behold,  now  I begin. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THAT  WHOEVER  DESIRES  TO  IMITATE  THE  HEART 
OF  JESUS,  MUST  PURIFY  HIS  OWN  HEART. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  if  thou  wilt  en- 
ter into  the  intimacy  of  My  Heart,  and  taste  the 
unutterable  sweetness  of  Its  intercourse,  cleanse 
thy  heart  from  every  evil. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


59 


For  I,  thy  Well-beloved,  am  pure  and  stainless, 
I delight  Myself  among  the  lilies. 

How  could  there  exist  a union  betwixt  My 
Heart  and  thine,  unless  thou  hadst  carefully  puri- 
fied it? 

For  who  shall  accuse  My  Heart  of  sin?  And 
how  canst  thou  say:  My  heart  is  clean;  since  thy 
heart  itself  is  conscious  of  the  contrary  ? 

Alas!  My  Child,  what  a heart  is  thine!  Born  in 
sin,  so  long  an  abode  of  evil  spirits,  defiled  and  dis- 
figured by  so  many  stains,  strongly  drawn  to  evil 
and  sadly  estranged  from  supernal  good;  fostering 
so  many  ill-regulated  affections,  the  fruitful  sources 
of  sin,  full  of  itself  and  of  the  world;  accustomed, 
for  the  most  part,  to  have  itself  in  all  things  for  its 
ultimate  object. 

2.  Wonderful  indeed  is  it,  that  thou  darest  in- 
vite Me  to  enter  into  such  a heart,  and  to  reside 
amid  such  uncleanness. 

A wicked  heart  is  to  Me  an  object  of  abhorrence, 
but  an  unclean  heart  I loathe:  how  then  could  it 
delight  Me  to  dwell  therein  ? 

I seek  a pure  heart,  and  all  My  delight  is  to 
dwell  therein;  and  to  be  there  entertained  among 
lilies. 

Whoever,  therefore,  loves  cleanness  of  heart,  shall 
enjoy  My  presence,  and  shall  experience  the  ten- 
derness, and  divine  sweetness  of  My  Heart. 

3.  Be  not  deceived,  My  Child,  thinking  that  it  is 
well  with  thee,  provided  thou  dost  outwardly  de- 
port thyself  in  a proper  manner,  since  I look  chiefly 
at  the  heart. 

And  what  will  it  avail  thee  to  have  been  pleasing 
by  thy  outward  conduct,  to  all  creatures,  if,  by  thy 


DO 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


inward  dispositions,  thou  hast  been  displeasing  to 
Me  ? 

If  thy  heart  is  stainless,  then  shalt  thou  be 
wholly  pure:  since  it  is  from  the  heart  that  pro- 
ceed evil  thoughts,  uncleanness,  fraud,  blasphemy 
and  all  manner  of  evil. 

Purify  thy  heart,  therefore,  and  nothing  shall 
hinder  thee  from  being  sweetly  united  to  My 
Heart,  and  from  tasting  the  fullness  of  Its  de- 
lights. 

But,  if  only  outwardly  thou  turn  away  from  evil, 
if  thou  do  not  root  out  sin  from  thy  heart,  thou 
shalt  never  be  free  from  vices:  they  shall  sprout 
forth  with  ten  times  greater  vigor  from  within,  than 
thou  shalt  be  able  to  shun  from  without;  and,  whilst 
thou  appearest  to  stand  firm,  thou  shalt  sink  be- 
neath the  weight  of  inward  evils. 

4.  Come  then,  My  Child,  prepare  a neat  dwelling- 
place  for  Me  in  thy  heart,  and  I,  when  I come,  will 
be  wholly  thine,  and  thou  shalt  be  wholly  Mine; 
and  there  shall  exist  a wonderful  intimacy  between 
us,  and  a union  known  only  to  those  who  have  tried 
it  by  experience. 

Be  of  good  courage,  and  begin  forthwith  this 
all-important  work:  thou  canst  feel  no  true  joy,  un- 
til thou  finish  it  entirely. 

Fear  of  trouble  hinders  many  from  perfectly  pu- 
rifying their  hearts. 

This  is  a device  of  the  enemy:  the  wily  fee, — 
knowing  that  on  a true  and  thorough  cleansing  of 
the  heart  depends  not  thy  salvation  and  perfection 
alone,  but  also  that  of  others,  and,  above  all,  My 
glory. — strives,  by  every  means,  to  keep  thee  from 
this  undertaking. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


b I 

Give  no  heed  to  the  suggestions  of  the  crafty 
schemer,  who  cares  not,  whether  it  be  by  true  or 
false  means,  that  he  attains  his  object. 

Do  thou  pray,  ask  fcr  divine  grace;  with  this, 
set  about  thy  work  bravely;  and  thou  shalt  see  that 
all  difficulties  vanish  before  thy  greatness  of  spirit; 
and,  to  thy  astonishment,  thou  shalt  find,  that  where 
thou  didst  look  for  the  greatest  hardships,  there 
shalt  thou  meet  the  greatest  consolations. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — I beg  and  beseech 
Thee,  Lord,  create  a clean  heart  in  me,  and  renev/ 
a right  spirit  in  my  interior. 

My  whole  heart  is  defiled  with  uncleanness:  and, 
from  the  heart,  infection  has  spread  over  the  powers 
of  my  soul,  and  over  the  senses  of  my  body.  Alas! 

0 Lord!  wffiat  is  there  in  me  without  blemish,  or 
altogether  pure  ? 

Send  forth,  I beseech  Thee,  the  light  of  Thy 
grace,  and  illumine  my  mind;  that  I may  know,  and 
bewail,  all  the  evil  I have  done,  and  the  good  which 

1 have  neglected. 

O how  I regret,  sweetest  Jesus,  that  I have  dis- 
honored Thy  dwelling-place  in  so  unworthy  a man- 
ner, that  I have  displeased  Thee,  that  I have  sad- 
dened Thy  Heart!  I grieve,  O my  supreme  Good: 
I lament  and  abhor  all  my  sins:  I avow  my  malice 
and  my  ungratefulness:  I implore  the  mercy  of 
Thy  Heart. 

Lord,  if  Thou  wilt,  Thou  canst  make  me  clean: 
wash  me  from  my  iniquity,  and  cleanse  me  from  my 
sin.  Yea,  from  hidden  offenses,  and  from  those  not 
my  own,  purify  my  heart. 

Come,  Jesus,  enter  my  heart,  and  make  for  Thy- 
self a scourge  with  the  cords  of  holy  fear,  of  lively 


62 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


gratitude,  and  of  pure  love,  and  drive  out  all  them 
that  defile  this  Thy  dwelling. 

Behold,  henceforth  I will  give  admittance  to  none 
of  them:  Thy  house  shall  be  called  a house  of 
prayer:  in  it,  I will  worship  Thee;  in  it,  I will  love 
Thee;  in  it,  I will  occupy  myself  with  Thee  alone. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

THAT  OUR  HEART  MUST  ESPECIALLY  BE  CLEAN  FROM 
MORTAL  SIN,  THE  GREATEST  OF  EVILS. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Look  thou,  My  Child,  lest 
in  thy  heart  there  be  that  sin  which  causeth  the 
death  of  the  soul. 

How  canst  thou  love,  or  darest  thou  receive,  as  a 
guest,  into  thy  heart,  thy  deadly  foe;  who,  when  ad- 
mitted, will,  without  doubt,  make  thee  the  slave  of 
hell,  the  most  wretched  of  men;  yea,  more  base 
than  the  irrational  beings  themselves. 

How  many  there  are  who  exclaim:  Alas!  what 
evils  ravage  the  earth!  Yet  sin  is  the  only  evil, 
and  there  is  none  other  besides. 

Avoid  sin,  and  whatever  may  befall  thee,  it  will 
turn  to  thy  advantage. 

2.  It  is  marvelous,  that  a being,  gifted  with  reason, 
should,  of  its  own  accord,  commit  sin,  which,  in  its 
very  nature,  is  so  unbecoming  and  detestable,  that, 
even  were  there  no  heaven  nor  hell,  it  ought  to  be 
shunned  on  account  of  its  inherent  foulness. 

If  thou  considerest  the  infinite  Majesty  of  Him 
that  is  offended,  and  the  infinite  meanness  of  the 


CHAPTER  VII.  63 

one  offending;  thou  wilt  understand,  that  sin  is  in 
some  sort  an  infinite  evil. 

Whoever  sins  mortally,  assails  God,  and  would 
do  away  with  God  Himself,  if  that  were  possible: 
nor  is  it  for  want  of  will,  on  the  part  of  the  sinner, 
that  the  God  of  heaven  and  earth  is  not  destroyed. 

3.  So  great  an  evil  is  sin,  that,  in  order  to  de- 
stroy this  hell-born  monster,  and  to  satisfy  the  di- 
vine justice,  I,  the  Son  of  the  Most  High,  must 
needs  come  down  from  My  throne  of  Majesty,  and 
being  made  man,  suffer  during  life  a ceaseless  mar- 
tyrdom, and,  at  last,  writhing  in  agony,  expire  upon 
a cross. 

Alas!  wretched  man,  how  canst  thou  love  to  do 
that,  which  has  cost  Me  so  much?  Or  how  canst 
thou  be  willing,  for  a moment’s  pleasure,  to  renew 
all  My  toils,  My  sufferings,  and  My  most  bitter 
death  ? 

When  thou  sinnest  mortally,  thou  makest  thy- 
self guilty  of  a far  more  grievous  crime  than  the 
Jews,  My  torturers.  For  these,  had  they  known 
Me  as  the  Lord  of  eternal  glory,  would  never  have 
put  Me  to  death.  But  thou,  thou  knowest  Me:  yea, 
knowest  who,  and  how  good  I am,  and  knowest  this 
by  the  experience  of  My  favors. 

4.  Was  it  not  by  My  charity  alone,  that  I not 
only  created,  redeemed,  and  preserved  thee;  but 
that  I ever  protected,  guided,  and  cherished  thee 
more  kindly  than  the  most  tender-hearted  parent? 

Whatever  thou  art,  whatever  thou  hast,  I have 
given  thee,  and,  over  and  above  all,  I have  given 
thee  My  own  Self:  and  is  this  the  return  which 
thou  makest  ? 

Behold,  if  thou  throwest  to  an  animal,  devoid  of 


04 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


reason,  a morsel  of  the  meanest  food,  it  shows  thee 
gratefulness,  as  much  as  it  is  able.  But  I have 
bestowed  upon  thee  boundless  favors,  and,  in  return, 
thou  persecutest  Me,  even  unto  the  death!  Reflect, 
then,  what  shouldst  thou  think  of  thyself  ? 

5.  O child  of  My  everlasting  love!  whom  I have 
loved  more  than  My  life,  sin  thou  no  more. 

If  thou  lovest  Me,  yea,  if  thou  lovest  thyself,  flee 
from  sin. 

For,  whenever  thou  committest  a mortal  sin,  thou 
diest  in  a supernatural  manner;  thou  losest  what- 
ever merits  thou  didst  possess;  thou  dost  forfeit 
thy  right  to  the  heavenly  inheritance;  thou  be- 
comest  a co-heir  with  the  devils;  thou  givest  the 
preference  to  misery  over  bliss,  to  hell  over  heaven, 
to  Satan  over  Me. 

Meditate  upon  these  things,  My  Child,  that  thou 
mayst  learn  fully,  as  far  as  the  human  mind  can 
understand,  how  great  an  evil  sin  is;  and  that  thou 
mayst  shun  that,  which  alone  can  make  thee 
wretched  for  evermore. 

6.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple . — O my  soul!  behold 
sin!  Tiuly  the  greatest  of  evils,  that  places  man 
below  the  brute,  blocks  up  the  gates  of  heaven, 
throws  open  the  abyss  of  hell.  O monster  to  be 
abhorred,  a thousand  times  more  frightful  than  the 
demon  himself  i 

0 my  God!  I blush  to  own  it,  and  disown  it  I can- 
not, I have  become  the  vilest  slave  of  sin,  and  by 
the  greatest  madness,  the  greatest  ingratitude,  the 
greatest  malice;  with  it,  and  by  it,  I have  again  and 
again  insulted  Thy  dread  Majesty,  before  which  the 
awe-struck  Angels  tremble  with  reverence. 

1 feel  wholly  confounded,  because  I have  become 


\_xfAPTER  VII. 


65 


riler  than  any  irrational  creature;  I have  done  in- 
iquity, which  my  reason  disapproved,  and  I have 
misused  all  the  powers  of  my  soul,  all  the  senses 
of  my  body. 

7.  O Lord  my  God!  Thou  didst  establish  in  me 
Thy  sweet  likeness;  and  I,  after  having  defiled  the 
same,  have  substituted  in  its  stead  the  horrid  image 
of  Satan;  yea,  in  various  ways,  I have  rendered 
myself  even  more  horrible  than  the  devil. 

He  sinned  through  pride,  when  no  punishment 
had  yet  been  inflicted  for  sin;  I sinned  knowing, 
but  disregarding  Thy  vengeance:  he  was  placed  in 
innocence  but  once;  I was  restored  to  it  so  many 
times:  he  rose  up  against  Him  who  made  him — I 
against  Him,  who  also  remade  me. 

Most  wretched  sinner  that  I am;  for  nothing,  vea, 
for  an  object  baser  than  nothing,  I have  voluntarily 
cast  aside  Thy  friendship,  the  blissful  peace  of  my 
soul,  the  right  to  eternal  beatitude;  I have  deliv- 
ered myself  up,  as  a hapless  slave,  to  the  devil;  thus, 
sharing  from  this  time  his  unhappy  condition,  and 
ready  to  partake  of  his  never-ending  torments,  un- 
less, returning  to  my  senses,  I find  mercy  in  Thy 
Heart. 

8.  I acknowledge,  Lord  Jesus,  that  I am  un- 
worthy to  find  that  mercy,  which  I have  so  often 
abused:  I am  not  worthy  to  serve  Thee,  since  I 
have  become  the  slave  of  the  devil.  If  Thou  wilt 
treat  me  as  I deserve,  hell  must  be  my  abode. 

Yet,  Jesus,  my  Saviour!  there  is  infinite  mercy 
in  Thy  Heart:  my  very  sins  show  this;  for  unless 
Thy  mercy  were  infinite,  Thou  wouldst  never  have 
tolerated  ihe  infinite  malice  of  my  sins. 

0 Jesus  I have  pity  on  me,  according  to  Thy 


56 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


great  mercy.  A suppliant,  I implore  forgiveness ; 
I hope  that  Thou  wilt  pardon  me,  a wretched  sin- 
ner. I am  sincerely  sorry  for  the  sins  I have  com- 
mitted, and  I firmly  resolve  to  serve  Thee  faithfully 
henceforth,  and  to  love  Thee  fervently. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

THAT  OUR  HEART  MUST  ALSO  BE  FREE  FROM  THE 

LEAST  SIN. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  cleanse  thy 
heart  from  every  fault:  and  keep  thyself  carefully 
from  the  stain  of  even  the  least  sin. 

There  is  nothing,  there  can  be  nothing,  for  the 
sake  of  which  it  is  allowed  to  commit  a sin,  how^ 
ever  light. 

Wherefore,  although  thou  mightst  thereby  save 
the  whole  world  from  ruin,  it  would  be  unlawful  to 
offend  Me,  even  in  the  least  thing,  since1  I am  in- 
finitely more  excellent  than  the  whole  universe. 

Some  guard  themselves  against  grievous  offenses, 
but  of  light  faults  they  render  themselves  guilty 
without  scruple;  a clear  sign  that  they  are  rather 
governed  by  self-love,  than  by  love  for  Lie. 

Deluded  souls!  they  will  learn,  at  their  cost,  how 
greatly  they  have  deceived  themselves. 

2.  Whoever  overlooks  little  things,  will  gradu- 
ally fail  in  great  ones;  and,  having  accustomed 
himself  to  think  everything  little,  he  will  still  fancy, 
that  all  is  well  with  him;  when,  without  much  un- 
easiness of  conscience,  he  commits  great  sins. 


CHAPTER  VIII." 


67 


In  his  foily,  he  finds  it  delightful  to  walk  on  the 
brink  of  the  precipice:  yet,  it  will  come  to  pass,  and 
that  justly  too,  that,  at  the  first  slip  of  his  foot,  he 
is  thrown  headlong  into  the  abyss. 

Beware,  therefore,  of  venial  trespasses,  lest  thou 
fall  into  mortal  sins. 

As  long  as  thou  yieldest,  even  to  the  slightest 
fault,  so  long  wilt  thou  expose  thy  salvation  to 
danger. 

3.  Many  seem  heartily  to  abhor  the  renewa1  of 
My  death  by  mortal  sin;  and  yet,  they  cease  not, 
by  small  offenses,  to  load  My  Heart  with  bitterness, 
and  afflict  It  with  continued  sorrows. 

Ah!  My  Child,  consider  again  and  again,  and 
carefully  attend  to  what  thou  art  doing.  For, 
whilst  thou  art  willing  to  inflict  a small  wound  on 
My  Heart,  perhaps  thou  shalt  mistake,  as  has  hap- 
pened to  many,  and  thou  shalt  pierce  My  Heart 
with  a mortal  blow. 

O perverseness  of  the  human  heart!  Many  dread 
more  to  give  offense  to  the  meanest  of  men,  than 
to  Me,  their  God  and  Saviour. 

4.  So  long  as  thou  continues  to  sin,  even  slightly, 
chou  shalt  be  ill  at  ease;  nor  shalt  thou  taste  true 
happiness. 

If  thou  hast  thy  perfection  at  heart,  as  it  be- 
hooves, unless  thou  avcidest  every  voluntary  sin, 
thou  shall  labor  in  vain,  whatever  efforts  thou  mayst 
make. 

For,  venial  sin  lessens  charity,  brings  on  luke° 
warmness,  viciates  acts  of  virtue,  obstructs  the 
sources  of  special  grace;  and,  finally,  despoiling/  by 
degrees,  the  soul  of  her  possessions*  leaves  her 
empty. 


6S 


THE  FIRST  300KC 


5.  And  for  what  is  it,  in  most  cases,  that  man 
exposes  himself  to  evils  so  numerous,  and  so  great? 
is  it  not  for  self-interest,  or  for  self-gratification  ? 

But  consider,  how  great  a loss  will  ensue,  and 
how  severely  thou  shalt  have  to  suffer  in  purga- 
tory. 

There,  torments  are  undergone,  which  far  exceed 
all  the  pains  of  this  world,  and  all  the  ills  of  life: 
nor  shalt  thou  go  thence,  until  thou  hast  paid  the 
last  farthing. 

How  exceedingly  shalt  thou  then  deplore,  that 
thou  didst  commit  even  the  smallest  offense,  on  ac- 
count of  which  thou  perceivest,  too  late,  alas!  that 
thou  art  excluded  from  heaven,  and  most  sorely  tor- 
mented ? 

Do  not,  My  Child,  render  useless  My  Heart’s 
desires  and  endeavors  of  making  thee  happy;  neither 
be  thou  so  thoughtless  as  to  choose  to  be  unhappy, 
in  spite  of  Me. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Venial  sin,  O Lord, 
is  then  no  small  evil,  since  it  offends  Thy  divine 
Majesty,  wounds  Thy  Heart,  deprives  the  soul  of 
special  graces  and  helps,  hinders  her  progress, 
viciates  her  good  deeds,  prepares  the  way  for  her 
destruction,  exposes  her  to  the  danger  of  everlast- 
ing perdition,  and  excludes  her  from  heaven. 

And  evils  so  great,  I have  deemed  small!  O 
what  madness  was  mine!  And,  what  is  worse,  I 
have  committed  them  without  number,  without 
measure.  My  transgressions  have  exceeded  all 
bounds. 

Where  are  the  limits?  Behold!  as  many  powers 
of  the  soul,  and  senses  of  the  body  as  there  are  in  me, 
so  many  kinds  of  sin:  as  many  gifts  and  favors,  so 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


69 


many  faults  of  misuse  or  ungratefulness:  as  many 
species  of  employments,  so  many  sorts  of  offenses. 
Alas!  amongst  all  my  actions,  even  those  of  re- 
ligion or  of  piety,  which  is  the  one  wherein  Thou 
hndest  not  some  short-coming  ? 

0 my  soul,  we  commit  so  many  faults  through 
want  of  attention,  by  surprise,  and  through  frailty; 
ought  not  these  to  suffice?  Should  we  add  greater 
ones  through  carelessness,  through  the  abuse  of  our 
free-will,  through  malice? 

Is  this  the  return  we  make  to  the  Lord,  by 
whose  goodness  we  live,  to  whose  love  we  owe 
whatever  we  are  and  possess  ? 

7.  O Lord  God,  my  Saviour!  that  I have  not 
perished  beneath  the  weight  and  multitude  of  my 
offenses,  this  I acknowledge  is  altogether  due  to  the 
kindness  of  Thy  Heart:  yea,  to  Thy  Heart’s  mercy 
it  is  owing,  O Lord,  that  I have  not  been  utterly 
destroyed. 

1 have  been  lowered  to  the  dust:  my  strength 
has  forsaken  me;  darkness  has  overspread  me:  my 
heart  itself  has  grown  faint  within  me.  Lo!  ever 
deeper  have  I sunk,  and  through  very  weariness,  I 
am  now  unable  to  extricate  myself.  O,  how  great 
is  my  misery! 

O!  who  shall  give  water  to  my  eyes,  and  strength 
to  my  heart,  that  I may  weep,  and  move  Thee,  O 
Lord,  to  set  me  free! 

Have  pity  on  me,  good  Jesus!  and  deliver  me: 
cleanse  and  renew  me  wholly. 

Inflame  my  heart  with  the  love  of  Thy  Heart: 
with  Its  divine  fire  do  Thou  consume  my  offenses: 
nor  keep  them  for  the  fire  of  purgatory.  Here,  I 
beseech  Thee,  here  let  me  burn  and  be  cleansed  in 


70 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


the  fire  of  Thy  sweet  love*  not  there  in  the  fire  of 
avenging  flames. 

Behold!  O most  sweet  Jesus,  love  for  Thee  will 
now  make  me  do,  what  fear  has  hitherto  been  unable 
to  effect:  through  love  for  Thee,  I will  shun  every 
sin,  even  the  slightest. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

THAT  THE  HEART  OF  THE  SINNER  CAN  TASTE  ONLY 
THE  BITTERNESS  OF  MISERY. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Well-beloved,  if  thou 
hast  come  to  this,  that  thy  heart  has  nothing  where- 
with to  reproach  thee,  rejoice,  yea  rejoice,  because 
peace,  like  a stream  of  bliss,  is  thine. 

A good  heart  makes  the  soul  happy,  gladdens 
heaven,  terrifies  hell.  But  a wicked  heart  fills  the 
sinner  with  wretchedness,  moves  the  Saints  with 
pity,  inspires  the  demons  with  fiendish  joy  and  ex- 
ultation. 

Picture  to  thyself  all  the  possible  calamities  of 
this  world;  thou  shalt  never  be  able  to  imagine 
misfortunes  so  great,  as  those  which  the  sinner 
bears  in  his  heart. 

How  hard,  how  abject,  is  the  slavery  of  the  sin- 
ner! with  how  many  chains,  and  how  tightly  lies 
he  fettered  beneath  the  yoke  of  the  basest  masters, 
;he  demon  and  his  own  tyrannical  passions! 

His  understanding  is  bound  with  the  chain  of  a 
dull  ignorance,  so  that  he  may  not  see  the  truth: 


JHAJPTER  IX.  71 

his  will  is  chained  with  the  fetters  of  an  accursed 
malice,  that  he  may  not  love  goodness. 

His  senses  are  riveted  with  the  fetters  of  concu- 
piscence, that  he  may  not  follow  righteousness:  he 
is  pressed  down  by  the  weight  of  the  chains  of  his 
passionate  desires,  that  he  may  not  gain  the  sweet 
freedom  of  grace. 

2.  Who  is  more  foolish  than  the  sinner,  who  is 
himself  the  cause  of  his  deepest  degradation  ? 

If,  on  earth,  there  be  a foretaste  of  hell,  it  is 
surely  in  the  heart  of  the  wicked;  who,  inflamed 
with  the  fire  of  his  passions,  suffers  all  the  tortures 
of  an  evil  conscience. 

How  can  he  ever  truly  rejoice,  who  knows  that 
were  the  slender  thread  of  life  broken,  he  should 
be  hurled  into  the  depths  of  hell  ? 

Verily,  I know  not  how  he  dares  betake  himself 
to  his  nightly  rest,  who  knows  not  whether  he 
shall  not  awake  in  eternity  as  a reprobate  ? 

3.  The  human  heart  necessarily  strives  after 
happiness:  but.  blindly  hurried  away  by  a mind 
unbridled  and  unsubdued,  the  sinner  seeks  happi- 
ness there,  where  only  greater  misery  can  be  found. 

Some  seem  to  imagine  that  they  may  be  able  to 
satisfy  their  passions,  by  gratifying  them  com- 
pletely; and  that,  when  they  are  sated,  then,  at  last, 
peace  will  come.  Alas!  how  great  an  error! 

For  who,  in  order  to  put  out  a conflagration,  will 
cast  fresh  fuel  on  the  fire?  Would  he  not,  by  so 
doing,  rather  increase  than  extinguish  it  ? 

Even  so,  if  a man  should  sacrifice  to  his  passions 
the  salvation  of  his  soul,  and  the  health  of  his  body, 
unsated,  still,  they  would  exclaim:  Thine  we  are, 
pi vo  us  food. 


72 


THE  iJ'JLRS J BOOK, 


Oh,  were  the  heart  of  the  sinner  exposed,  what 
wretchedness,  what  disgustful  objects  might  be 
descried  therein  I Yet  all  things  are  open  and  visi- 
ble to  Me,  who  cannot  err,  and  whom  men  cannot 
deceive. 

4.  A heart  given  to  evil  habits,  sometimes  goes 
so  far  that  it  no  longer  fancies,  loves,  or  relishes 
anything,  except  what  may  gratify  the  passions: 
and,  although  it  knows  that  it  is  hurrying  on  to  an 
abyss  of  misery,  yet  it  heeds  not,  but,  like  a sense- 
less beast,  it  runs  after  its  lusts,  trampling  under 
foot,  not  the  good  things  of  eternity  alone,  but  also 
decency,  and  honor,  and  life  itself. 

The  sinner  needs  no  enemy  to  hurt  or  tor  men* 
him:  he  himself  is  his  own  greatest  enemy,  and 
most  cruel  torturer. 

Even  from  the  things  with  which  he  seeks  to 
delight  and  gratify  himself,  he  is  wont  to  receive 
manifold  tortures. 

5.  How  can  he  enjoy  peace,  who  nourishes  within 
himself  the  cause  of  his  disturbance?  or  how  can 
he  even  once  breathe  freely,  who  is  the  slave  of  the 
devil  ? 

How  unhappy  must  he  be,  who  allows  Satan  to 
seat  himself  on  the  throne  of  his  heart,  and  to  be 
lord  and  master  therein! 

Blessed  is  he,  that  has  never  experienced  the 
slavery  of  the  devil!  that  has  never  groaned  be- 
neath the  weight  of  the  shackles  of  sin! 

My  Child,  if  thou  hast  never  yet  felt  the  wretch- 
edness of  the  state  of  sin,  rejoice  thou  with  thy 
whole  heart,  and  never  seek  to  know  what  it  is  to 
serve  the  devil. 

iiut  if,  unfortunately,  thou  art  his  subject,  have 


CHAPTER  IX. 


73 


pity  on  thy  soul;  eagerly  cast  off  his  yoke,  burst 
his  chains,  enjoy  the  freedom  of  the  children  of 
God 

6 The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord!  how 
great  is  the  wretchedness  of  the  state  of  sin!  How 
truly  unhappy  is  the  soul,  that  languishes  in  this 
most  pitiful  state!  what  peace,  what  joy  can  she 
possess,  when  she  has  Thee,  the  Almighty  and  All- 
knowing One,  for  an  enemy!  when  she  knows  her- 
self banished  from  Thy  Heart,  her  last  place  of 
refuge!  when  she  is  conscious  that  at  any  moment 
she  may  be  plunged  into  fire  everlasting. 

How  truly  unhappy,  when  she  cannot  look  up  to 
heaven,  without  seeing  that  she  has  lost  all  right  to 
the  same!  when  she  cannot  look  around  her,  with- 
out being  upbraided,  and  without  being  terrified  at 
every  accident!  when  she  cannot  even  cast  down 
her  eyes,  without  being  silently  reminded,  that  hell 
is  her  dwelling-place! 

How  truly  unhappy,  when  she  cannot  turn  to 
her  own  heart,  without  finding  Satan  therein  ! 
without  being  tortured  therein  as  in  a hell  tasted 
beforehand,  where  there  is  nothing  joyous,  nothing 
consoling;  but  everywhere  horror,  and  darkness, 
and  dread,  and  torments. 

O most  wretched  soul!  how  changed  from  what 
thou  wast,  when,  adorned  with  celestial  grace,  en- 
nobled by  divine  adoption,  thou  wast  so  fair,  so 
great,  as  to  be  an  object  of  wonder  to  the  Saints  and 
Angels ! 

How  disfigured  by  sin!  how  abject!  how  base 
under  every  aspect! 

7.  O Jesus!  would  that  I were  able,  even  at  the 
price  of  my  blood,  to  undo  what  has  unfortunately 


74 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


been  done!  would  that  I had  never  fallen  into  so 
great  a wretchedness,  but  that  I had  rather  lost  my 
life  instead  of  Thy  grace! 

O blessed  are  they,  that  have  never  lost  their 
innocence!  that  have  never  experienced  the  misery 
of  the  state  of  sin! 

Restore  to  me,  I entreat  Thee,  my  first  garment; 
give  me  back  my  innocence:  and  lo!  in  the  new- 
ness of  life  I will  so  serve  Thee,  as  to  preserve  it 
stainless  for  Thee  all  my  days,  even  to  the  end. 


CHAPTER  X. 

THAT  THE  HEART  OF  JESUS  INVITES  ALL,  EVEN 

SINNERS. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Come  to  Me,  all  ye  that 
labor  and  are  burdened,  and  I will  refresh  ycu. 

He  that  is  just,  let  him  come,  that  he  may  be 
made  still  more  just:  he  that  is  lukewarm,  let  him 
come,  that  he  may  become  fervent:  he  that  is  a 
sinner,  let  him  come,  that  he  may  be  cleansed  and 
made  holy. 

Alas  for  human  frailty!  Where  is  the  man, 
that  has  not  sinned?  For,  whosoever  shall  say, 
that  he  has  no  sin,  deceives  himself,  and  the  truth 
is  not  in  him. 

2.  My  Child,  if  thou  feelest  thyself  burdened 
with  sins,  or  troubled  with  defects,  hasten  to  My 
Heart:  here  shalt  thou  be  made  free;  here  thou 
shalt  breathe  again. 


ClIAP'ii^K  X. 


75 


Let  not  the  greatness  of  thy  sins  hinder  thee, 
nor  the  grandeur  of  My  Majesty:  I came  not  to 
call  the  just  to  repentance,  but  sinners. 

The  greater  the  miseries  to  which  thou  art  sub- 
ject, the  greater  the  pity  I feel  for  thee:  and  the 
more  thou  art  ill,  the  greater  need  thou  hast  of  a 
physician. 

I am  not  astonished  at  thy  infirmities;  for  I 
know  thy  frame  and  thy  heart.  That  thou  didst 
not  fall  into  greater  evils,  thou  owest  chiefly  to  My 
grace. 

But  at  this  I wonder,  that,  when  I present  My- 
self to  heal  thee,  thou  art  unwilling  to  be  healed; 
or,  if  thou  art  willing,  thou  seemest  to  doubt  My 
goodness. 

Ah!  My  Child,  do  not  offer  this  most  bitter  insult 
to  My  Heart.  For  My  Heart  loves  to  forgive,  and 
does  not  grow  weary  with  pardoning. 

Behold,  with  what  kindness  I treat  truly  re- 
pentant sinners,  so  that  I have  even  been  called  the 
friend  of  sinners. 

3.  Where  is  the  heart,  that  loves  as  My  Heart? 
No  man  has  a greater  love,  than  that  he  lay  down 
his  life  for  his  friends;  but  I,  the  Son  of  God,  have 
a greater  one  than  this,  for  I laid  down  My  life  for 
My  enemies. 

Who  ever  loved  Me  first?  or  who  ever  bestowed 
his  affections  upom  Me,  who  did  not  first  experience 
the  effects  of  my  love  ? 

4.  Since  many  lose  their  innocence,  before  they 
understand  clearly  what  innocence  is,  or  how  great 
its  price,  it  is  a great  glory  of  My  Heart,  to  tri- 
umph also  over  their  hearts;  and  of  sinners  to  make 
them.  Saints. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


?6 


O didst  thou  but  know  the  charity  of  My  Heart, 
thou  might st  then  be  able  to  understand,  how 
dearly  It  loves  faithful  souls,  and  how  sweetly  It 
invites  sinners. 

Who  is  suffering,  and  My  Heart  is  not  suffering 
with  him?  Who  sins,  and  My  Heart  is  not  thereby 
affected  ? Who  is  ill,  and  My  Heart  does  not 
afford  a remedy?  Who  is  unhappy,  and  My  Heart 
does  not  feel  it?  Who,  in  fine,  is  there  in  the 
world,  to  whom  My  Heart  does  no  good  ? 

5.  I am  a good  Father;  and  My  children,  be- 
gotten on  the  cross,  I embrace  with  the  love  of  My 
Heart — which  remains  open  for  them,  that,  at  all 
times,  they  may  have  a place  of  refuge,  nor  this  a 
common  one,  but  the  very  centre  of  My  affections. 

Whilst  they  sleep,  My  Heart  is  awake  to  watch 
over  them;  whilst  they  are  watching,  It  is  occupied 
with  their  preservation. 

So  great  is  the  love  wherewith  My  Heart  is  in- 
flamed for  them,  that  I love  and  cherish  each,  as 
if  he  were  My  only  one. 

And  if  some  one,  misled  by  the  enemy,  wanders 
away,  My  Heart  wails  over  him,  as  over  the  death 
of  an  only-born.  I pursue  him  with  My  love,  I in- 
vite, I press,  I promise.  But  if  he  be  unwilling 
to  hearken  to  Me,  I have  patience,  I stand  at  the 
door  of  his  heart,  and  knock  again  and  again. 

If,  at  last,  he  resolves  to  return  to  Me;  I fly  to 
meet  him,  I press  him  to  My  bosom,  whilst  My 
Heart  leaps  for  joy;  because  I see  the  child,  whom 
I had  bewailed  as  dead,  alive  and  safely  restored 
to  Me. 

In  My  joy,  I call  together  all  heaven,  that  they 
may  congratulate  Me,  and  exult  with  Me. 


CHAPTER  X. 


77 


6.  If,  therefore,  thou  desirest  to  delight  My 
Heart,  to  gladden  heaven,  and  to  refresh  thy  soul, 
be  converted  to  Me  with  thy  whole  heart. 

It  matters  not  how  much,  or  how  little,  thou 
mayst  have  sinned,  come  to  My  Heart,  and  thou 
shalt  find  a cure  for  all  thy  ills. 

Trust  in  Me,  My  Child,  and  fear  nothing:  I call 
thee,  not  to  upbraid  thee  with  thy  faults;  but  that 
I may  wash  them  away. 

Come,  Child  come:  I await  thee,  with  open  arms, 
and  a burning  Heart. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Behold,  most  sweet 
Jesus,  behold,  I come,  aroused  and  reassured  by 
the  exceeding  goodness  of  Thy  Heart. 

Coming,  I beseech  and  exclaim:  Kindly  receive 
Thy  prodigal  child,  returning  from  a far-off  coun- 
try, squalid  with  sin,  filled  with  misery. 

I am  not  worthy  to  be  called  Thy  child,  since  I 
left  Thee  in  a manner  so  unbecoming,  dishonored 
Thee  so  shamefully,  and  grieved  Thee  so  much. 

I have  sinned  against  heaven  and  before  Thee: 
guilty  as  I am,  I dare  not  now  throw  myself  into 
Thy  arms:  behold,  I prostrate  myself  in  the  dust 
before  Thy  feet,  appealing  to  Thy  paternal  Heart, 
imploring  pardon. 

Lo,  Thou  didst  recall  me  when  I fled  away: 
Thou  didst  seek  me,  when  I was  lost:  Thou  didst 
bear  with  me,  when  I was  abusing  Thy  goodness: 
with  wonderful  mildness  Thou  didst  induce  me  to 
return:  when,  at  last,  I come  in  this  pitiful  state, 
Thou  dost  not  only  receive  me,  but,  O goodness! 
Thou  dost  even  embrace  me!  O Jesus!  O never 
was  there  such  a father! 

Let  all  the  Angels  and  Saints  be  glad,  and  re- 


7* 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


joice  with  me:  let  them  praise  and  extol  Thy  mercy 
forever ! 

Behold,  now  I am  Thine  for  evermore:  ever 
faithful  I will  love  Thee,  O Lord,  and,  through  lov^ 
for  'Hiee,  I will  comply  with  all  Thy  wishes. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

HOW  THE  CLEANSING  OF  THE  HEART  IS  TO  BE  UN- 
DERTAKEN. 

1.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple.  — Numberless,  O 
Lord,  are  the  things  which  urge  me  on  to  free  my- 
self entirely  from  faults.  Heaven  holds  out  prom- 
ises, hell  threatens,  earth  can  at  any  moment  hurl 
me  into  eternity. 

My  heart,  also,  full  of  thy  gifts,  impelled  by  its 
own  wretchedness  as  well,  and  drawn  by  the  infi- 
nite goodness  of  Thy  Heart,  never  ceases  to  incite 
me. 

But,  how  shall  I perform  so  great  an  under- 
taking? For,  although  I see  that  I ought  to  do  it, 
yet,  I know  not  how  to  accomplish  it. 

Do  Thou,  I beseech  Thee,  good  Jesus,  teach  me 
the  manner  of  truly  amending  and  reforming  my- 
self. All  the  glory,  thence  arising,  shall  belong  to 
Thee,  and  to  Thy  most  loving  Heart. 

2.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  L thou  wishest 
to  cleanse  thy  heart,  and  to  root  out  everything 
vicious,  begin  the  work  with  a great  courage  and 
a generous  mind. 

Have  the  good  and  determined  will  of  correcting 


CHAP 'l£&  XI. 


79 


thyself,  and  c.  never  ceasing  to  strive  after  a com- 
plete cleansing;  at  the  same  time,  cherish  a sincere 
desire  of  co-operating  with  the  divine  grace,  and  of 
following  its  guidance:  and  thus  thy  endeavors 
shall,  at  last,  be  crowned  with  success. 

This  is  the  first  and  chief  means  on  thy  part: 
from  it  all  the  rest  derives  its  strength  and  efficacy  5 
and  without  it,  however  powerful  it  may  be,  of  it- 
self, everything  else  can  hardly  effect  any  good. 

This  strong  determination  of  ever  striving,  with 
God’s  grace,  to  cleanse  the  heart,  and  to  preserve 
it  unsullied,  is  the  first  hope  of  future  purity  of 
heart,  the  first  sign  of  future  perfection,  the  first 
token  whereby  future  Saints  are  distinguished,  yea, 
the  first  characteristic  mark  of  the  true  Disciples  of 
My  Heart. 

3.  Being  made  ready  for  the  work,  by  this  dis- 
position of  thy  soul,  take  fire,  and  enkindle  thy 
heart  therewith,  that  thou  mayst  consume  the  sins 
and  defects  which  exist  therein. 

Understand,  Child,  what  I say.  Thou  hast  to 
clear  a garden,  all  bristling  with  noxious  plants  and 
weeds,  and  disfigured  with  filthy  objects;  thou  shalt 
succeed,  however,  if  thou  usest  the  proper  means, 
if  thou  cuttest  away  all  things  hurtful,  if  thou  tear- 
est  up  and  carriest  out  everything  useless;  but  thou 
shalt  not  finish  thy  work,  except  after  a long  time, 
and  with  hard  labor. 

But,  by  applying  the  fire,  without  trouble  and 
in  a short  time,  thou  shalt  see  the  whole  garden 
cleansed. 

Nay,  more;  by  this  burning,  the  garden  itself 
shall  become  richer,  and  better  suited  to  produce 
flowers  and  fruits. 


8o 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


In  like  manner,  Child,  thou  w’lt  cleanse  thy 
heart,  which  may  be  likened  to  this  garden,  much 
more  readily,  and  more  easily,  by  using  the  fire  of 
divine  love,  rather  than  by  any  other  means. 

Thereby  also  thou  shalt  find  thy  heart  better 
adapted  to  produce  the  flowers  of  virtue,  and  the 
fruits  of  sanctity. 

4.  Now,  this  fire  thou  mayst  obtain  from  My 
Heart,  if  thou  drawest  near  to  It,  through  prayer; 
if  thou  prayest,  not  with  the  lips  alone,  but  also 
with  thy  mind  and  heart. 

For,  if  thou  weighest  properly  in  thy  mind  the 
sufferings  of  hell,  or  of  purgatory,  which  thou  hast 
so  often  deserved:  if  thou  considerest  attentively 
My  divine  favors  bestowed  upon  thee,  and  all  thy 
ungratefulness: 

If  thou  meditatest  carefully  on  My  infinite  per> 
fections  so  worthy  of  all  love  and  honor,  and  on 
thy  offenses,  so  deserving  of  punishment: 

If,  moreover,  thou  viewest  Me,  exhausted  with 
toils,  through  love  for  thee,  and  suffering  so  many 
things,  for  thy  transgressions, — hanging  on  the 
Cross,  with  arms  extended,  and  with  My  Bosom 
opened  for  thee: 

If,  in  fine,  thou  enterest  into  My  Heart  Itself, 
and  considerest  to  what  degree  that  innocent  Heart 
did  suffer  for  thy  sins,  and  how,  for  them,  it  was 
spent  and  consumed: 

If,  at  the  same  time,  through  loving  desires,  and 
fervent  petitions,  thou  appliest,  as  it  were,  thy  heart 
to  Mine: — 

Then,  doubtless,  in  prayer,  shall  blaze  out  that 
fire,  that  heat  of  divine  love,  of  which  I am  speak- 
ing. 


^xfAPTER  XX. 


81 


5.  From  this  love  do  thou  draw  forth  contrition; 
that  is,  sorrow  for  sin  committed,  and  a resolve  of 
not  sinning  again  in  future. 

No  one,  My  Child,  obtains  the  pardon  of  his  sins, 
unless  he  bewail  them;  nor  is  any  one  healed  of 
his  vices,  unless  he  hate  them. 

Wherefore,  as  much  as  thou  art  able,  do  thou 
hate  and  detest,  in  thy  heart,  thv  sins  and  vices; 
which  thou  canst  not  hate  nor  detest  too  much. 

The  more  thou  shalt  draw  this  sorrow  from  the 
divine  love,  the  more  perfect  shall  thv  contrition  be, 
even  if  thou  do  not  actually  feel  the  same. 

And  the  more  sincerely  thou  shalt  bewail  and  de- 
test thy  sins,  with  an  upright  heart,  the  more  certain 
shalt  thou  be  of  the  pardon  of  thy  offenses,  and  the 
more  secure  against  committing  new  ones. 

6.  Thou  hast  a sure  mark  of  sorrow  for  the  sins 
of  the  past,  if  thou  abstainest  from  committing  new 
ones. 

Therefore,  have  thou,  and  preserve  always,  a firm 
resolve  of  shunning  whatever  thou  knowest  to  be 
displeasing  to  Me;  and  of  suffering  rather  all  the 
evils  of  this  life,  than  to  commit  a voluntarv  sin. 

But,  take  heed,  lest  thou  deceive  thyself,  by  im- 
agining, that  any  kind  of  resolve  will  be  sufficient. 
For  a vague  desire  is  not  enough:  a resolution  made 
through  custom,  or  for  form’s  sake,  is  not  enough; 
neither  does  an  ineffectual  purpose  suffice, — when 
one  appears  to  will  and  not  to  will;  when,  as  he  fan- 
cies, he  is  willing  to  sin  no  more,  and  yet,  he  is  un- 
willing effectually  to  use  the  means  necessary  to 
avoid  sin. 

It  is  requisite,  My  Child,  that  the  resolution  be 
really  sincere,  settled,  and  efficacic us,  that  by  it  thou 


82 


THE  FIRST  BOOK, 


may st  be  induced  to  employ  the  means,  which  may 
hinder  thee  from  again  committing  sin. 

Now,  to  keep  this  resolution  ever  alive  within 
thee,  renew  it  often,  pray  frequently,  nourish  thy 
devotion  by  spiritual  exercises:  and  thus  obtain  for 
thyself  that  special  grace  whereby  thou  mayst  the 
more  easily  become  constant  and  persevering. 

7.  The  Voice  oj  the  Disciple. — My  Heart,  O Lord, 
is  truly  like  an  abandoned  field,  wherein  many  nox- 
ious weeds  spring  up  and  many  useful  plants  lie 
spoiled. 

It  is  a great  work,  to  clear  the  heart  of  all  these, 
and,  of  myself,  I can  do  nothing  profitable. 

But  do  Thou  help  me,  I beseech  Thee,  with  Thy 
efficient  and  powerful  grace,  that  I may  be  able  to 
finish  happily  so  great  an  undertaking. 

For  I desire  eagerly  to  complete,  according  to  Thy 
direction,  a work  so  necessary,  so  useful,  so  holy; 
and  am  resolved  nor  to  leave  it  off,  before  I have 
finished  it  in  reality. 

Do  not  suffer,  O most  kind  Jesus,  that  I ever 
grow  slothful  or  careless,  in  so  important  an  enter- 
prise. For,  I confess,  that  I am  prone  to  grow  weak 
in  courage,  and  that  I am  went,  even  after  I have 
begun  with  zeal,  by  degrees  to  fall  into  luke- 
warmness. 

But  do  Thou  arouse,  encourage,  and  stir  me  up 
strongly,  nor  allow  me  to  cease  from  my  labor, 
until  I bring  the  work  to  its  wished-for  completion. 


CHAPTER  XII. 


83 


CHAPTER  XII. 

THAT  THE  HOLY  SACRAMENT  OF  PENANCE  IS  AN 

EASY  AND  EFFECTUAL  MEANS  OF  CLEANSING 

ONE’S  SELF  FROM  SINS  AND  VICES. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  My  Heart,— 
knowing  that  the  frailty  of  mortals  is  of  such  a 
nature,  that,  whilst  on  earth,  they  cannot  live  with- 
out sin, — has  devised  a saving  means,  whereby,  if 
it  is  rightly  used,  they  may  not  only  obtain  the  re^ 
mission  of  their  sins,  but  also  receive  an  increase 
of  grace. 

God  is  faithful,  and,  according  to  His  word,  He 
forgives  their  sins  to  those  that  confess  them;  and 
Pie  gives  grace  to  those  that  pray  for  it,  and  seek  to 
live  better.  (I.  John  i.  9,  and  v.  14.) 

What  would  become  of  most  men,  if  there  were 
no  Confession?  How  few  should  be  saved!  And 
how  many  of  those  who  now  rejoice  in  heaven,  or 
shall  possess  it  hereafter,  should  be  lost! 

2.  Therefore  have  I given  power  to  the  Church, 
that  whose  sins  she  shall  forgive,  they  be  forgiven 
them;  and  whose  sins  she  shall  retain,  they  be  re- 
tained. (Matt,  xviii.  John,  xx.) 

‘‘If,  then,  either  hatred,  or  infidelity,  or  any  other 
sin,  have  secretly  crept  into  the  heart  of  any  one, 
let  him  not  be  ashamed  to  confess  the  same,  to  him 
that  presides,  that,  through  the  word  of  God,  and 
through  wholesome  advice,  he  may  be  healed  by 
him.”  (St.  Clement  of  Rome.  I.  Century.) 

“ But,  if  thou  wouldst  withdraw  thyself  from 
Confession,  meditate  in  thy  heart  on  hell,  which 


THE  FIRSi  B00£. 


*4 

Confession  will  extinguish  for  thee.  ThereforeT 
knowing  that  against  hell,  after  that  first  safeguard 
of  Baptism,  there  remains  still  this  second  help  in 
Confession,  why  dost  thou  abandon  thy  salvation? 
Represent  first  to  thyself  the  greatness  of  the  pun- 
ishment, and  thou  wilt  not  hesitate  to  take  the  rem- 
edy.'’ (Tertullian.  II.  Cent.) 

“For  there  is  a remission  of  sins,  although  a 
toilsome  one,  through  Penance,  when  the  sinner 
moistens  his  couch  with  his  tears,  and  when  he  is 
not  ashamed  to  make  known  his  sins  to  the  priest  of 
God,  and  to  seek  a remedy.”  (Origen.  III.  Cent.) 

“This  remedy  of  Confession  is  eagerly  to  be  de- 
sired by  all,  since  the  soul  is  harassed  by  greater 
danger  than  the  body;  and  the  healing  for  hidden 
diseases  must  be  applied  as  soon  as  possible.’' 
(Lactantius.  IV.  Cent.) 

“Confess,  then:  let  all  corrupted  matter  come  out, 
and  flow  off  in  Confession:  what  remains,  shall  be 
easily  healed.  Dost  thou  fear  to  confess,  when,  by 
not  confessing,  thou  canst  not  remain  concealed? 
God,  who  knows  all  things,  requires  Confession, 
that  He  may  free  the  humble:  for  this  He  condemns 
him  that  does  not  confess,  that  He  may  punish  the 
proud.”  (St.  Augustine.  V.  Cent.) 

“But  confess  thou,  in  such  a manner,  that  thou 
do  not  again  turn  to  thy  sins:  for  then  is  the  Con- 
fession of  sin  profitable,  when  the  sinner,  who  con- 
fesses, does  no  more,  what  he  had  wickedly  done.” 
(St.  Fulgentius.  VI.  Cent.) 

“Mar  ought  to  abstain  from  sin,  wrhen  he  has 
confessed:  Confession  goes  before,  remission  fol- 
lows.” (St.  Isidore.  VII.  Cent.) 

For  “the  Church,  which  is  founded  on  Christ, 


CHAPTER  XII. 


85 

has  received  from  Him  the  power  of  freeing  men 
from  their  sins.”  (Ven.  Bede.  VIII.  Cent.) 

“If  sinners  are  unwilling  to  confess  their  sins, 
God  Himself,  who  is  now  their  witness,  shall  also 
be  their  avenger.”  (Haymo.  IX.  Cent.) 

“Sins  should  not  be  repeated  publicly:  it  is  suf- 
ficient to  make  known,  to  the  priests  alone,  by  a 
private  confession,  the  faults  of  conscience.”  (Luit- 
prand.  X.  Cent.) 

“Therefore,  reason  moves,  and  God  impels  the 
sinner  to  confess.”  (St.  Peter  Damian,  XI.  Cent.) 

“Confession  is  necessary  to  the  sinner;  and  is  no 
less  proper  for  the  just.  (St.  Bernard.  XII.  Cent.) 

“Confession  should  be  made,  in  a threefold  man- 
ner: without  palliating,  without  excusing,  without 
delaying.”  (St.  Bonaventure.  XIII.  Cent.) 

“Let  the  penitent,  therefore,  accuse  himself  be- 
fore the  priest,  with  a lively  feeling  of  sorrow,  with 
a firm  purpose  of  amendment,  and  let  him  perform 
the  works  which  may  be  enjoined.”  (Thauler. 
XIV.  Cent.) 

“Penance  is  a Sacrament,  the  matter  of  which 
consists  in  the  acts  of  the  penitent,  which  are  di- 
vided into  three  parts.  The  first  is  contrition  of 
heart:  the  second  is  the  oral  Confession:  the  third, 
satisfaction.”  (Council  of  Florence.  XIV.  Cent.) 

Behold,  Child,  how,  from  the  beginning,  the 
faithful  of  all  times,  and  of  all  parts  of  the  world, 
have  regarded  and  esteemed  this  sweet  and  saving 
Sacrament. 

3.  What  can  be  more  advantageous  than  rightly 
to  confess?  Through  Confession,  man  is  freed  from 
faults,  he  returns  into  favor  with  Me,  he  receives 
peace  of  heart;  so  that  he  who  before  felt  himself 


86 


THE  FIRS7  BOOK. 


tortured  with  anguish  now  finds  himself  calm  and 
happy 

The  Sacrament  of  Penance  is  the  medicine  of  the 
soul  whereby  vices  are  healed,  temptations  put  to 
Right,  the  snares  of  the  devil  destroyed,  new  grace 
is  imparted,  piety  increased,  virtue  rendered  more 
and  more  solid. 

Through  Confession,  the  soul  regains  her  rights, 
which  she  had  lost  by  committing  sin;  and  recovers 
her  beauty,  which  unrighteousness  had  disfigured. 

4.  But  it  sometimes  happens  that  the  sinner, 
when  he  approaches  this  Sacrament  of  divine  mercy, 
impelled  either  by  shame  or  fear,  throws  himself 
into  the  abyss  of  sacrilege;  so  that  now  he  is  not 
simply  a sinner,  but  becomes  a frightful  monster 
of  sin. 

Art  thou  able,  wretched  man,  to  hide  thyself  from 
Me?  Art  thou  able  to  hinder  Me  from  thrusting 
thee  down  into  that  lowest  depth,  which  thou  thy- 
self hast  dug  ? 

Dost  thou  sacrilegiously  conceal  thy  sins  from  a 
Confessor,  who,  by  the  strictest  laws,  human  and  di- 
vine, is  bound  to  an  everlasting  and  complete  se- 
crecy? I will  make  them  known  before  thy  face, 
not  to  one  man  alone,  not  to  one  nation,  but  to 
Heaven  and  Earth,  to  all  that  shall  ever  have  ex- 
isted. 

Then,  in  the  excess  of  thy  confusion,  thou  wilt 
call  upon  the  mountains,  that,  covering  thee,  they 
may  screen  thee  from  shame;  yea,  thou  wilt  wish 
to  hide  thyself  in  hell;  but  thou  shalt  not  be  able: 
thou  shalt  stand  and  undergo,  publicly,  thy  whole 
confusion  and  deserved  ignominy. 

Foolish  man!  thou  wast  not  ashamed  to  sin  to 


CHAPTER  XII.  87 

thy  disgrace  and  perdition;  why  dost  thou  blush 
to  confess  for  thy  salvation  and  glory  ? 

But,  consider:  why  shouldst  thou  hesitate  to  un- 
fold  thy  conscience  before  him  who  is  appointed  by 
Me,  and  holds  My  place  in  thy  regard  ? 

When  thou  presentest  thyself,  as  a penitent,  be- 
fore him,  thou  oughtest,  indeed,  to  look  upon  the 
Confessor  even  as  upon  Myself;  for  he  verily  repre- 
sents Me,  and  possesses  My  power. 

Yet,  he  also  is  a man,  and  has  his  own  miseries; 
and  he,  too,  as  well  as  thyself,  is  obliged  to  make 
Confession:  which  is  all  the  harder  for  him,  as,  by 
reason  of  his  elevated  condition,  he  ought  to  be 
more  perfect. 

Thus  has  it  been  ordained  from  heaven  in  a most 
wise  and  holy  manner,  that  all — priests  no  less  than 
laymen — who  desire  to  be  freed  from  grievous  sin, 
should  be  obliged  to  confess:  and  that  it  be  es* 
peciaily  proper  that  the  priests,  whose  sacred  em- 
ployments demand  a greater  holiness,  should  cleanse 
themselves,  by  frequent  Confession,  even  from 
slighter  trespasses. 

Hence,  laymen  confess,  with  greater  freedom  and 
confidence,  to  the  priests;  and  priests  learn,  by  ex- 
perience, to  feel  compassion  for  their  miseries,  to  be 
weak  with  them  that  are  weak,  and  to  weep  with 
them  that  weep. 

5.  But  there  are  those  that  confess  their  sins  can- 
didly enough,  and  yet  are  not  improved.  And 
why?  Because  they  do  not  strive  with  a sincere 
heart  to  correct  themselves. 

Some  approach  the  Sacrament  of  Penance  from 
necessity,  others  through  human  respect,  others 
again  from  a certain  custom.  Why  wonder,  then. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


38 


if  they  that  approach  in  this  manner  derive  from 
it  but  little  or  no  fruit? 

Do,  thou,  My  Child, — having  ever  thy  own  salva- 
tion and  My  good  pleasure  before  thy  eyes, — make 
each  Confession,  as  if  it  were  to  be  the  last  of  thy  life: 
thus  wilt  thou  experience  sweet  and  wonderful 
effects. 

6.  Yet,  know  thyself,  My  Child,  and  learn,  that 
thou  shalt  often  be  tempted  to  do  again  those  things, 
over  which  thou  hadst  wept,  and  which  thou  hadst 
resolved  to  shun. 

Do  not,  on  that  account,  lose  courage,  Child,  nor 
be  thou  saddened  overmuch.  These  will  be  the 
effects,  not  of  malice,  but  of  frailty;  being  invol- 
untary, rather  than  deliberate  transgressions. 

Thence,  learn  thou  the  goodness  of  My  Heart, 
ever  ready  to  pardon  thee;  and,  in  like  manner,  the 
pitiful  condition  of  thy  heart,  which  is  ever  inclined 
to  evil,  and  frequently  betrays  thee. 

Beware,  however,  lest,  on  account  of  this  thy 
great  frailty,  thou  neglect  Confession:  but  the 
weaker  thou  feelest  thyself,  the  more  frequently 
have  thou  recourse  to  it. 

7.  Some  hold  Confession  in  dread,  and  do  not 
approach  it  without  trembling. 

Behold,  the  greatest  sinners,  as  well  as  the  great- 
est Saints,  find  consolation  therein:  and  art  thou 
tormented  with  anxiety! 

There  the  dead  return  to  life  and  the  living  live 
more  fully.  Why,  then,  tremblest  thou,  as  if  thou 
wert  going  to  death,  or  to  the  rack  ? 

Thou  errest,  my  Child,  thou  errest;  this  most 
wholesome  Sacrament  was  not  instituted  for  tortur- 
ing, but  for  solacing  the  heart. 


chapt^k  xn/' 


89 


8.  Cast  aside,  therefore,  all  uneasiness  and  anxi- 
ety. I am  not  a God  of  agitation,  but  of  peace;  I 
find  My  delight,  not  in  the  commotion,  but  in  the 
good  will  of  the  soul. 

Do  what  thou  canst,  and  confess  with  as  sincere 
a heart,  as  thou  art  able  to  do:  after  that,  remain 
in  peace,  nor  be  thou  disturbed  by  the  suggestions 
of  the  enemy,  or  of  thy  own  imagination. 

My  Heart  is  the  place  of  refuge  for  sinners.  As 
often  as  any  one  flies  hither  with  a contrite  and 
humble  heart,  I will  neither  cast  him  off,  nor  will 
I despise  him. 

Do,  then,  frequently  resort  to  that  divine  bath, 
wherein  My  Heart  will  wash  thy  soul  with  My 
Blood,  and  wash  her  yet  more,  until  she  be  wholly 
pure  and  stainless.* 


* This  may  be  explained  by  a truly  wonderful  and  consol- 
ing fact  related  in  the  life  of  St.  Mary  Magdalen  of  Pazzi. 
When,  on  a certain  day, — in  the  Church  of  her  Convent, 
where  Confessions  were  being  heard, — this  holy  Virgin  was 
pouring  forth  her  heart  before  our  Lord,  present  in  the  Taber- 
nacle, and  whilst  she  was  rapt  up  by  divine  communications, 
she  perceived  that  the  spiritual  world  became,  in  some  man- 
ner, unvailed  before  her  For  she  saw  the  souls,  such  as  they 
were,  of  each  one  of  the  penitents,  whilst  they  were  confess- 
ing. And,  at  the  moment  when  the  Sacramental  absolution 
was  given,  she  beheld  the  divine  Blood  of  Jesus  mvsticallv 
poured  upon  each  of  them,  and  washing  them,  so  that  the> 
became  exceedingly  pure  and  fair.  Now,  if  such  be  the 
effect  of  one  Confession,  what  must  be  the  effect  of  frequent 
Confession?  If  the  soul  becomes  so  pure,  so  beautiful,  when 
washed  only  once  in  the  Blood  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus, — which 
is  applied  to  us  in  the  Sacrament  of  Penance;  how  pure,  how 
beautiful  must  she  become,  when  she  is  thus  cleansed  fre- 
quently! Brown  and  soiled  linen  is  not  only  made  clean  by 
frequent  washing,  but  is  made  as  white  as  snow.  Shall  not 
then  a soul,  often  washed  in  the  divine  Blood  of  Jesus,  be- 


go 


THE  *-iRST  BOOK. 


9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  benign 
Jesus,  how  wholesome,  how  consoling  a device  of 
Thy  Heart,  is  the  Sacrament  of  Penance!  How 
astonishing  a condescension,  how  wonderful  a sweet- 
ness, that  of  the  Blood  of  Thy  Heart  Thou  makest 
a bath,  wherewith  Thou  mayst  cleanse  us  from  our 
sins ! 

Had  not  Thy  Heart  found  out  this  secret,  so  full  of 
all  consolation,  who  could  have  thought  of  it?  And 
hadst  Thou  not  made  it  known,  what  should  have 
become  of  us,  what  of  me  ? 

Thanks  to  Thee,  most  sweet  Jesus!  let  the  An- 
gels, and  all  the  Blessed,  let  all  peoples  and  tongues, 
return  thanks  to  Thee,  for  that  Thou  didst  institute 
this  life-giving,  this  sanctifying  Sacrament,  whereby 
the  guilty  dwellers  of  earth  are  saved,  and  heaven 
is  filled  with  a multitude  of  Saints. 

That,  therefore,  I may  not  misuse  so  great  a 
blessing,  and  that  I may  gather  from  it  every  de- 
sirable fruit;  behold,  I will  confess  not  only  fre- 
quently, but  also  carefully:  as  if  preparing  myself 
for  death,  I will  always,  before  making  my  Confes- 
sion, elicit  from  my  heart  an  act  of  true  sorrow,  and 
of  firm  resolve,  peacefully  indeed,  but  with  the 
greatest  sincerity  as  well:  I will  lay  every  fault 
before  my  Confessor,  with  the  same  candor  that  I 
would  use  before  Thee,  were  I to  behold  Thee  with 
my  eyes:  at  the  earliest  opportunity  I will  perform 
the  penance  enjoined:  lastly,  I will  strive  to  be 


come,  at  last,  perfectly  pure  and  unutterably  beautiful  ? This 
most  pious  thought  may,  at  least,  serve  to  increase  your  love 
for  the  holy  Sacrament  of  Penance:  and  whilst  you  receive 
it  actually,  ought  sweetly  to  occupy  your  mind,  and  greatly 
to  console  you. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


91 


grateful,  and  to  live  with  a new  fervor,  and  a purer 
heart. 

0 Jesus!  what  consolation,  what  sweetness  is 
felt,  when  my  soul,  in  this  Sacrament  of  Thy  mercy, 
is  washed  and  cleansed  by  the  most  sacred  and  pure 
Blood  of  Thy  Heart  I 0 do  Thou  wash  me  fre- 
quently, I beseech  Thee,  and  I shall  be  made  wholly 
clean:  wash  me  yet  more,  and  I shall  be  made 
whiter  than  snow! 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

THAT  TOR  THE  FORGIVENESS  OF  OUR  SINS  WE  MUST 

FIRMLY  REI  V UPON  OUR  LORD,  AFTER  WE  HAVE 

SINCERELY  DONE  WHAT  WAS  If.  7 RALLY  IN  OUR 

POWER. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — As  I live,  I desire  not 
the  death  of  the  sinner,  but  that  he  be  converted 
and  live. 

If  the  sinner  do  penance  fcr  all  the  sins  which 
he  has  committed,  and  keep  all  My  commands,  liv- 
ing, he  shall  live,  and  not  die. 

The  ungodliness  of  the  ungodly  shall  not  hurt 
him,  in  whatever  day  he  shall  turn  away  from  his 
ungodliness:  the  sins  which  he  has  sinned  shall 
lot  be  imputed  to  him. 

Why,  then,  art  thou  troubled,  My  Child,  or  why 
fearest  thou  so  immoderately?  Am  I like  a man, 
that  I should  he  or  change?  Did  I say  it,  and 
shall  I not  do  it  ? Did  I promise,  and  shall  I not 
make  it  good?  Did  I swear,  and  shall  I not  keep 
My  word? 


92 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Why  dost  thou  doubt,  O man  of  little  faith? 
Amen:  heaven  and  earth  shall  pass  away,  but  My 
words  shall  not  pass  away. 

2.  Behold,  God,  My  heavenly  Father,  who,  for 
thy  salvation,  did  not  spare  His  only  Son,  but  de- 
livered Him  up  for  thee,  no  less  than  for  the  rest: 
did  He  not  give  thee,  together  with  Him,  all  other 
things,  pardon,  perseverance,  Paradise,  every  bless- 
ing? 

Through  Me,  therefore,  the  only-begotten  Son  of 
God,.  thou  art  become  rich  in  all  things,  so  that 
thou  canst  be  wanting  in  no  grace.  For,  where  sin 
abounded,  there  grace  did  more  abound. 

Go  then,  with  confidence,  to  the  throne  of  grace, 
that  thou  mayst  obtain  those  things  that  are  need- 
ful to  thee. 

3.  My  Child,  I came  down  from  heaven,  that  1 
might  snatch  thee  from  the  jaws  of  hell:  all  the 
days  of  My  life,  I was  in  suffering,  that  thou 
mightst  be  happy  through  all  eternity;  I was  will- 
ingly condemned  to  die,  that  thou  mightst  be  free 
from  everlasting  death:  and  all  these  things  I did 
for  thee,  when  thou  wast  My  enemy;  what  then, 
will  I not  do,  or  what  can  I refuse,  when  thou 
tavest  Me  ? 

If  thy  sins  affrighten  thee,  know,  My  Child,  that 
My  infinite  merits  are  infinitely  more  powerful  to 
save  thee,  if  thou  art  willing,  than  thy  sins  to 
destroy  thee,  if  thou  art  uneasy. 

If,  by  reason  of  thy  sins,  thou  standest  in  dread 
of  My  judgment,  call  to  mind,  that,  I thy  Saviour, 
who,  even  at  the  right  hand  of  God,  My  Father, 
intercedes  for  thee,  shall  be  thy  Judge. 

4.  Enlarge,  therefore,  thy  heart  in  the  Holy 


CHAPTEF  XxII. 


93 


Spirit,  whom  thou  didst  receive  in  the  Sacrament 
of  divine  mercy.  That  Spirit  of  love,  that  consum- 
ing fire,  will  destroy  the  remnant  of  thy  sins,  and 
cast  out  all  inordinate  fear. 

Hadst  thou  been  an  exceedingly  great  sinner, 
like  the  thief  crucified  witn  Me;  hadst  thou,  like 
Paul,  persecuted  Me;  hadst  thou  even  denied  Me, 
like  Peter:  behold,  if  once  thou  confessest  rightly, 
so  as  to  enjoy  the  effect  of  the  Sacrament,  all  thy 
sins  are  forgiven  thee. 

5.  Why  art  thou  sad,  My  Child,  and  why  dost 
thou  disquiet  thyself?  Thinkest  thou  that  I am  a 
harsh  master,  whom  it  is  difficult  to  satisfy  ? 

Thou  art  mistaken,  Child;  thou  art  greatly  de- 
ceived. For,  behold,  am  I not  a Father,  whose 
Heart  is  goodness  itself  ? Dost  thou  not  know 
this  ? Hast  thou  not  experienced  it  ? 

Do  not  then  dishonor  Me;  do  not  revile  Me,  by 
attributing  to  Me  things  which  are  so  wrongful. 

6.  My  Child,  thou  hast  not  received  the  spirit  of 
bondage  again  in  fear:  but  thou  hast  received  the 
spirit  of  adoption  of  the  sons  of  God,  whereby  thou 
mayst  love  and  address  Me:  Abba,  Father! 

Do  not,  then,  fear,  Child;  do  not,  by  worrying 
thyself  uselessly,  lose  the  time  which  thou  oughtest 
to  spend  happily  in  loving  Me.  For  I do  not  re- 
quire anguish,  but  love. 

Have  confidence,  My  Child,  that  thy  sins  have 
been  forgiven  thee.  Do  now  strive  to  love  Me  the 
more,  the  more  I have  forgiven  thee. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  O my 
love!  my  life!  How  delightful  to  me,  how  sweet 
are  the  words  thou  utterest  from  Thv  Heart ! 

O Lord,  my  God!  Thou  didst  wash  not  my  feet, 


94 


fHE  FIRST  BOOK. 


not  my  hands,  not  my  head  alone,  but  my  somf 
my  whole  self,  and  that  with  Thy  own  blood. 

Behold,  Thou  didst  cast  my  sins  into  the  depth 
of  a sea,  into  the  abyss  of  the  mercy  of  Thy  Heart, 
where  they  have  disappeared  from  Thy  sight. 

0 Jesus!  how  can  I ever  be  unmindful  of  Thy 
mercies,  whereby  Thou  hast  thus  restored  me  to  life! 

1 will  sing  Thy  mercies,  O Lord,  forever:  I will 
praise  the  goodness  of  Thy  heart  for  evermore. 

8.  Bless  the  Lord,  O my  soul,  and  let  all  that 
is  within  me  bless  His  Sacred  Heart.  Yea,  bles\ 
the  Lord,  O my  soul,  and  never  forget  all  He  has 
done  for  thee.  Who  forgives  all  thy  iniquities: 
who  heals  all  thy  diseases. 

He  has  not  dealt  with  us  according  to  our  sins 
nor  has  He  rewarded  us  according  to  our  iniquities: 
but  He  has  blotted  them  out  according  to  the  mul- 
titude of  the  mercies  of  His  Heart. 

As  a father  has  pity  on  his  children,  so  has  the 
Lord  had  pity  on  us;  because  He  is  good,  because 
His  mercy  endures  forever. 

9.  Love  the  Lord,  O my  soul,  love  Jesus,  love 
Him  much;  because  He  has  forgiven  thee  much. 

Let  them  love  less  to  whom  He  has  forgiven 
less:  but  do  thou,  by  the  greatness  of  thy  love, 
strive  to  make  a suitable  return  for  the  greatness 
of  His  bounty. 

Yea,  O most  sweet  Jesus,  I will  love  Thee  with 
all  my  strength:  nor  will  I henceforward  pass  my 
time  in  vexing  my  heart,  Thy  kingdom  now;  but  I 
will  employ  it  better,  more  usefully  to  me,  more 
pleasingly  to  Thee:  Thy  love  shall  ever  be  my  oc- 
cupation. In  peace  in  the  self-same,  will  I take 
my  rest  and  repose. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


95 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

HOW  WE  MUST  GUARD  AGAINST  A RELAPSE* 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  hast  thou 
fallen  into  sin?  Do  not  again  give  thyself  up  to 
it;  but  so  guard  against  the  future  as  not  to  return 
to  the  past. 

When  the  demon  has  been  expelled  from  a heart, 
he  goes  and  takes  with  him  seven  other  spirits 
mere  wicked  than  himself,  and,  returning,  attempts 
to  enter  again.  If  man  does  not  resist,  the  ene- 
mies enter,  and  the  last  state  of  that  man  becomes 
worse  than  the  first. 

If,  therefore,  thou  desire  not  to  become  the  prey 
of  hell,  thou  must,  by  all  means,  resist  the  tempta- 
tions of  the  devil. 

Do  not  be  afficted  nor  sad,  My  Child,  because 
thou  art  assailed,  against  thy  will,  by  various  temp- 
tations; be  rather  rejoiced  and  consoled.  For  it  is 
a sign  that  thou  art  in  the  state  of  grace,  and  that 
thou  foilowest  My  standard. 

If  thou  didst  adhere  to  the  devil,  he  would  surely 
not  attack  what  is  his  own;  but  because  thou 
standest  by  Me,  therefore  does  he  tempt  thee,  and 
endeavor  to  draw  thee  over  to  his  ranks. 

2.  My  Child,  temptation  is  not  prevarication; 
yea,  so  long  as  it  is  displeasing  to  thee,  it  is  meri- 
torious of  a divine  reward. 

Therefore,  however  loathsome  the  things  which 
the  enemy  may  suggest,  be  not  uneasy;  however 
violently  he  may  entice  thee  to  evil,  think  not  that 
thou  art  forsaken  by  Me. 


q6 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Never  am  I nearer  to  thee,  or  more  ready  to 
help  thee,  than  when  thou  sufferest  under  these 

trials.  , . 

When  rnou  art  tempted,  Child,  I stand  by, 
looking  on  the  struggle,  and  helping  thee,  that,  be- 
ing thus  encouraged  and  aided,  thou  mayst  not 
only  withstand  the  foe,  but  gloriously  triumph- 
over  him. 

Ba  therefore,  ready  for  the  combat:  no  one  shall 
be  crowned,  unless  he  has  struggled  lawfully;  and 
he  that  shall  overcome  shall  receive  the  crown  of 


, As  thou  dwellest  among  enemies  to  the  right 
and  to  the  left,  and  art  exposed  to  their  assaults 
from  within  and  from  without;  thou  oughtest  to  be 
so  well  armed  at  all  times  that  they  can  nevei  find 

thee  defenseless.  . 

Have  thy  heart  lifted  up  and  united  to  Mine, 
with  a determined  and  generous  resolve,  to  endure 
all  things,  yea,  even  to  die  in  the  struggle,  rather 
than  turn  thy  back  upon  Me.  Otherwise  thou 
shalt  not  be  able  fully  to  withstand  the  stubborn- 


ness of  the  contest. 

4 In  this  warfare,  two  kinds  of  weapons  are 
necessary  to  thee:  the  one,  defensive,  the  other,  of- 
fensive. , , f j 

Humility  will  furnish  thee  weapons  iO  aetend 
thyself.  Bv  means  of  this  virtue,  place  no  reliance 
upon  thyself,  put  all  thy  trust  in  Me:  and,  being 
convinced  of  thy  own  frailty,  shun,  as  much  as  thou 
art  able,  all  dangerous  occasions. 

For  it  were  an  inexcusable,  and  most  shamefu 
presumption,  to  seek  them,  or  to  go  to  meet  them, 
especially  if  they  are  of  the  flesh. 


CHAPTER  XTV'o  97 

5.  If,  nevertheless,  the  foe  assails,  call  upon  Me; 
rely  upon  My  help,  confidingly  and  lovingly. 

He  that  prays  amid  temptation,  as  he  ought,  can- 
not be  overcome;  but  he  that  neglects  prayer,  is 
usually  vanquished. 

Resist  generously  from  the  very  beginning  of  the 
temptation,  and  pray  fervently  in  this,  or  a similar 
manner:  O,  Jesus!  hide  me  within  Thy  Heart,  that 
I may  not  be  separated  from  thee.  . . O,  God!  my 
God!  come  to  my  assistance.  . . Jesus  and  Mary! 
make  haste  to  help  me.  . . I will  rather  die, 
O Lord,  than  commit  sin. 

If  the  enemy  continue  to  tempt,  faithfully  with- 
draw thv  mind  from  the  object  of  the  temptation; 
and,  having  earnestly  turned  it  to  other  things,  either 
good  or  indifferent,  persevere  in  prayer,  persevere 
in  thus  resisting,  not  with  anxiety  or  impatience, 
but  calmly  and  steadily:  and  the  foe  shall  either  flee 
away,  or  stand  abashed. 

6.  Let  it  not  be  enough  for  thee  to  repulse  Sa- 
tan; strive,  also,  to  injure  him.  This  thou  canst  do, 
if,  by  means  of  the  weapons  which  divine  love  will 
furnish  thee,  thou  turn  the  temptations  of  the  ene- 
my against  himself. 

As  otten,  therefore,  as  the  demon  tempts  thee,  so 
often  use  temptation  against  his  aim  and  object, 
that  thou  mayst  unite  thyself  more  closely  with 
Me;  glorify  Me  by  thy  faithfulness,  and  acquire 
for  thyself  greater  strength  and  merit. 

So  it  shall  come  to  pass,  that  thy  adversary, 
frightened  by  his  defeat,  either  dares  not  return, 
or,  if  he  dares,  will  secure  for  thee  a more  signal 
victory  and  a brighter  crown. 

7.  But,  if  ever  thou  be  so  unfortunate  as  to  fall. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


98 

arise  without  delay;  fight  with  more  humility  and 
courage;  and  beware,  above  all,  lest  thou  surren- 
der and  make  thyself  a slave  to  the  foe. 

Many  have  been  lost,  because,  after  having  fought 
b\  rvely, — when  they  were  on  the  point  of  gaining 
th  j victory, — cast  down  by  the  troublesomeness  of 
thu  temptation,  they  surrendered  disgracefully,  and 
perished  miserably. 

Up  then,  My  Child;  the  struggle  is  short,  but 
the  prize  everlasting. 

Le  magnanimous:  courage  is  a great  part  of  the 
viaory.  It  prepares  thee  for  grace;  it  raises  the 
heart,  increases  strength,  moderates  labor,  frightens 
and  weakens  the  enemy. 

For  Me,  thy  God  and  Saviour,  for  thy  salvation, 
for  an  everlasting  crown,  for  the  very  Kingdom  cf 
hea  fen,  fight  thou  bravely,  and  display  a sight  wor- 
thy of  God,  of  the  Angels,  and  cf  men. 

8 The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Thanks  to  Thee, 
mosc  benign  Jesus,  who  thus  teachest  my  hands  to 
fight  and  my  fingers  to  war. 

Behold,  Thou  also  cheerest  up  my  heart,  and 
ghest  me  courage,  so  that  I am  ready  to  put  forth 
my  strength,  and  to  act  valiantly. 

But  I know  and  confess  that  of  myself  I am 
weak  and  cowardly:  if  I am  left  to  myself  alone, 
if  I rely  upon  myself  alone,  what  can  be  looked  for, 
except  that  I shall  shamefully  fall  away  from  Thee 
and  perish  ignobly  ? 

Give  me  grace,  I entreat  Thee,  that  I may  not 
presume  on  myself;  that,  of  my  own  accord,  I may 
not  expose  myself;  but  that  I may,  with  prudence, 
shun  every  occasion  of  falling,  and,  by  watchfulness, 
escape  all  the  snares  of  my  foes. 


CHAPTER  XV. 


99 


And  at  what  time  Thou  shait  see  me  attacked  by 
the  enemy,  or  engaged  with  him,  do  Thou  arise,  I 
beseech  Thee,  hasten  to  my  assistance;  because 
Thou,  O Lord,  art  my  strength. 

Be  thou  near  me,  I pray:  set  me  beside  Thee, 
and  let  any  man’s  hand  fight  against  me;  with  Thee 
I will  conquer,  with  Thee  I will  triumph. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

HOW  THE  ROOTS  OE  VICES  AND  DEFECTS  ARE  TO  BE 
WHOLLY  PLUCKED  UP. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  to  obtain  per- 
fect purity  of  heart,  it  is  not  enough  to  cherish  a 
good  will,  to  meditate  and  pray  frequently,  to  con- 
fess often  and  devoutly.  These  means  are  very 
efficient  and  necessary,  and  therefore  never  to  be 
omitted,  nor  neglected. 

But,  alone,  they  do  not  suffice;  since  they  are 
not  wont  to  pluck  up  completely  the  roots  of  vices 
and  defects. 

It  is  necessary,  then,  to  use  besides  another 
means,  whereby  thou  mayst,  so  to  speak,  extermi- 
nate the  noxious  roots,  and  thus  render  thy  heart 
perfectly  clean. 

These  sweet  and  wholesome  effects  are  produced, 
in  a marvelous  manner,  by  self-examination,  an  ex- 
ercise apparently  trifling  indeed,  and  a small  mat- 
ter but  in  itself  very  efficient,  and  more  deeply 
penetrating  than  any  two-edged  instrument, — reach- 
ing even  to  the  dividing  of  the  soul  and  the  dis- 


IOO 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


cerning  of  spirits,  and  searching  into  the  cncjghts 
and  intentions  of  the  heart. 

Nor  does  it  serve  merely  to  root  out  evil  habits 
and  defects;  but,  what  is  more  wonderful,  to  ac- 
quire solid  virtues,  and  even  to  attain  to  perfection. 

2.  This  self-examination  is  threefold.  The  first, 
which  is  used  to  collect  one’s  self,  consists  in  this, 
that,  when  an  opportunity  offers,  thou  turn  to  thy 
heart,  and  inspect  it  for  a short  time,  observing 
whence  it  is  moved,  with  what  things  it  busies  itself; 
or  what  it  has  done,  and  in  what  manner;  what  it 
should  do  in  future,  and  how. 

Opportunities  of  performing  a very  short  self- 
examination  of  this  sort,  are  wont  to  present  them- 
selves frequently.  When,  for  example,  ihou  be- 
ginnest  any  of  the  more  important  actions  of  the 
day;  and  when  thou  hast  performed  them. 

When  something  is  presented  to  thy  senses,  or  to 
thy  mind,  by  which  thou  mayst  be  allured,  or 
tempted;  also,  when  thou  hast  fallen  into  some 
defect. 

When  thou  meetest  with  any  difficulty  which 
may  occasion  trouble,  or  disturb  thee:  lastly,  as 
often  as,  during  some  length  of  time,  thou  hast  not 
looked  into  thy  heart. 

Now,  this  can  easily  be  done,  at  any  time,  and  in 
any  place,  even  whilst  others  are  present,  and  with- 
out attracting  their  attention. 

In  the  exercise  itself,  there  is  no  difficulty  what- 
ever. At  first,  indeed,  some  attention  should  be 
used,  but  no  straining  of  the  mind;  and,  in  a short 
time,  thou  shalt  begin  to  acquire  a holy  and  con- 
soling habit,  and  gather  from  it  the  sweetest  and 
most  wholesome  fruits. 


CHAPTER  Xv. 


IOI 


3.  The  second  is  a general  examination,  by  which, 
twice,  or  at  least  once,  every  day,  thou  devotest  a 
short  time,  some  minutes,  exclusively  to  asking  of 
thyself  an  account  of  thy  way  of  living. 

Having  briefly  returned  thanks  to  God,  and 
begged  for  divine  light,  inspect  and  scrutinize,  how, 
since  thou  didst  last  examine  thyself,  thou  hast  de- 
ported thyself,  in  thy  exterior  and  interior. 

Examine  thy  thoughts,  words,  and  deeds:  see 
wherein  thou  hast  sinned,  or  failed:  then,  carefully 
mark  each  sin,  or  defect,  at  least  mentally. 

If  thou  hast  already  practically  learnt  something 
of  the  interior  life,  place  thy  heart  near  to  Mine, 
compare,  and  notice  the  difference  between  the 
thoughts,  sensations,  and  actions  of  both. 

After  thou  hast,  in  this  manner,  discovered  thy 
faults  and  failings,  then  see  and  acknowledge  thy 
unthankfulness  for  My  Divine  favors;  form  an  act 
of  sorrow,  as  perfect  as  possible,  beg  for  grace  to 
amend  thyself,  and  to  make  better  progress. 

4.  Lastly,  the  particular  examination  is  that,  by 
means  of  which  thou  exertest  thyself,  to  root  out, 
separately,  only  one  vice  or  defect  at  a time. 

Most  wonderful  is  the  power,  and  incredible  the 
efficacy,  of  this  exercise.  Would  that  thou  didst 
understand  it  well,  My  Child,  and  that  thou  didst 
perform  it  in  a proper  manner! 

There  is  no  habit  so  deep-rooted,  no  vice  so  great, 
which,  by  this  means,  cannot  be  overcome  and  sub- 
dued. 

For,  with  God’s  grace,  it  can,  in  some  manner, 
do  all  things.  How  many  sinners  have,  by  its 
means,  been  freed  from  vices,  which  had  grown  on 
them  like  a second  nature!  How  many  souls  has 


102 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


it  enabled  to  cleanse  themselves  thoroughly!  How 
many  has  it  helped  to  reach  perfection! 

Whatever  defects,  then,  thou  mayst  have,  be  of 
good  cheer,  My  Child:  sure  art  thou  of  victory: 
sure  of  future  freedom,  if  thou  use  this  means  dili- 
gently and  perseveringly. 

Attack,  first,  that  vice  or  defect  which  may  be  a 
stumbling-block,  or  a just  cause  of  offense,  to  thy 
neighbor;  afterwards,  the  cne  which  seems  to  be 
thv  chief  fault.  When  the  leader  is  overthrown, 
the  rest  are  easily  overcome. 

5.  Now,  thy  method  of  proceeding  shall  be  this: 
In  the  morning,  resolve  firmly  and  considerately, 
that,  during  the  day,  thou  wilt  shun  what  thou 
mayst  have  chosen  to  be  avoided  in  a particular 
manner;  at  the  same  time,  beg  for  grace,  that  thou 
mayst  be  faithful  to  thy  resolution. 

Then,  twice,  or  only  once  a day,  according  as 
thou  makest  the  general  self-examination,  thou 
shalt  also  search  thyself  and  see  how  often,  since 
the  last  scrutiny,  thou  hast  failed  in  thy  special  re 
solve;  and  mark  the  number  of  times. 

Afterwards,  grieve  not  only  for  thy  faults  in  gen- 
eral, but  also  for  these  defects  in  particular:  and 
resolve  again  to  be  specially  on  thy  guard  against 
them,  and  for  this  end  implore  also  special  grace. 

Meanwhile,  My  Child,  it  will  help  thee  x;ery 
much,  if,  when  thou  perceivest  thyself  growing,  in 
some  way,  indifferent  or  careless,  thou  inflict  upon 
thyself  some  small  punishment;  and  this  as  often 
as  thou  offendest  against  thy  particular  examina- 
tion. 

6.  But  that  thou  mayst  use  rightly  and  constantly 
these  and  other  means,  thou  needest  a guide  to 


CHAPTER  XV. 


direct,  to  teach,  to  fashion  thee;  to  keep  thee  in; 
or  stir  thee  up,  and  cheer  thee  on  at  all  times. 

No  one,  when  left  to  himself,  can  walk  with  safety 
in  the  path  of  the  spiritual  and  interior  life;  for, 
oftentimes,  he  will  be  exposed  to  the  danger  of 
going  astray,  of  losing  heart,  of  falling  into  the 
snares  of  the  foe;  nay  more,  of  perishing. 

Wert  thou  a Saint,  or  a chosen  x\postie,  thou  yet 
wouldst  need  some  guide.  Was  not  Paul,  although 
a Vessel  of  election  to  carry  My  name  among  the 
nations,  at  My  command,  instructed  and  directed 
by  Ananias?  Were  not  the  Saints  trained  to  holi- 
ness, by  others  that  led  a holy  life  ? 

Pray,  therefore,  My  Child,  that  thou  mayst  be 
worthy  to  find  a guide  according  to  My  Heart, 
either  in  thy  Confessor,  thy  Superior,  or  some  other 
person,  who  possesses  authority,  skill  and  experi- 
ence in  spiritual  matters,  and  a practical  knowledge 
of  the  interior  life. 

To  such  a one,  My  Child,  do  thou  occasionally 
make  known  thy  heart:  at  certain  times  give  some 
account  of  thyself,  that  thou  mayst  know  whether 
thou  advancest  rightly;  wdiat  thou  must  correct, 
and  how  it  is  to  be  done;  on  what  thou  oughtest 
to  insist,  and  in  what  manner  it  is  to  be  accom- 
plished. 

The  subjects,  concerning  which  this  interior  man- 
ifestation should  be  made,  are  usually:  the  disclos- 
ing of  the  soul’s  state  or  habitual  feeling,  whether 
it  be  peaceful  or  agitated;  what  longings  for  a more 
perfect  life  thou  feelest  within  thyself;  what  ob- 
stacles embarrass  thee;  to  what  practices  of  devo- 
tion and  mortification  thou  art  wont  to  applv  thy- 
self. 


io4 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


What  method  thou  hast  in  prayer  and  medita- 
tion; with  what  relish  and  fruit  thou  advancest  by 
this  method;  what  spiritual  books  thou  readest, 
and  whether  they  agree  with  the  present  degree  of 
thy  interior  life:  whether  thou  readest  in  a manner 
proper  and  profitable. 

In  what  manner  thou  approachest  the  Sacra- 
ments; with  what  preparation,  with  what  feelings 
of  piety,  with  what  thanksgiving,  with  what  re- 
sults. 

How  thou  makest  thy  self-examinations;  with 
what  painstaking,  and  with  what  fruit. 

How  thou  performest  the  duties  of  thy  state  of 
life,  the  obligations  of  thy  office,  thy  ordinary  ac- 
tions,— by  what  motive  or  principle,  whether  of  na- 
ture or  of  grace,  with  wdiat  object, — what  end  thou 
hast  in  view. 

In  what  manner  thou  deportest  thyself  towards 
others,  with  what  disposition  of  heart,  with  what 
profit  or  loss  to  thyself  and  to  them. 

With  what  fidelity  thou  obeyest  God’s  inspira- 
tions; how  thou  feelest  disposed  towards  Me; 
finally,  in  what  degree  thou  relishest  the  sentiments 
of  My  Heart. 

Do  thou,  My  Child,  modestly  and  religiously, 
with  humble  candor  and  docile  charity,  make 
known  such  and  similar  matters,  sometimes  one, 
then  another,  according  as  spiritual  necessity  or 
usefulness  may  require. 

All  this,  if  thou  peform  it  after  this  manner,  thou 
shalt  find  easy,  most  useful,  and  full  of  consolation.* 


* Purity  of  heart,  being  of  the  greatest  importance,  it  is 
thought  proper  to  bring  together,  in  this  place,  the  means  to 


CHAPTER  XV. 


7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Lord  Jesus,  to  ex- 
ecute all  those  things,  greatly,  indeed,  do  I need 
light  from  above, — wherewith  to  discover  my  de- 
fects,— and  divine  assistance,  to  remove  them. 

For  many  of  them  lie  hidden  from  human  eyes 
nor  can  I see  them  myself,  neither  can  any  one 
point  them  out  to  me,  unless  aided  by  a supernatu- 
ral light. 

But  if,  with  the  brightness  of  this  light,  Thou 
deignest  to  illumine  my  inmost  soul,  behold!  all 
things  therein,  great  and  small,  shall  be  unvailed. 
For  even  as  the  sun  shining  into  a chamber  reveals 


attain  it,  although  they  have  been  given  separately.  The 
first  is  a settled  and  constant  determination  of  always  try- 
ing to  improve.  The  second,  stated  and  repeated  mental 
and  vocal  prayer.  The  third,  the  pious  and  frequent  use  of 
the  Sacraments.  The  fourth,  the  faithful  practice  of  the 
three-fold  self-examination,  especially  of  the  particular  ex- 
amination. The  fifth,  the  candid  disclosing  of  our  interior 
life;  and,  on  the  other  hand,  a holy  guidance.  Whoever 
makes  a right  use  of  these  means,  will  doubtless  attain  to 
as  great  a purity  of  heart,  as  the  Lord  is  ordinarily  wont  to 
require.  But  if  He  require  something  extraordinary,  He 
Hcmself  will  provide  the  means,  for  no  ne  is  able  to  make 
provision  under  such  circumstances.  Yet,  as  things  are 
wont  to  be  preserved  by  the  same  means  that  produced  them, 
you  shall  preserve  interior  purity,  by  the  same  means  that 
have  been  pointed  out  to  attain  it.  These  then  are,  “the 
five  loaves  of  the  show-bread,  which  must  be  ever  new  and 
fresh  before  the  Lord.”  Wherefore,  these  means  are  always 
to  be  used  with  the  same  care.  And,  lest  you  grow  lukewarm 
by  degrees,  either  through  frailty  or  carelessness,  examine 
yourself  from  time  to  time,  and  make  known  how  you  use 
them;  and  if  you  have  in  any  Wise  fallen  off,  do  as  quickly 
as  possible  strive  to  regain  your  former  fervor.  As  long  as 
vou  shall  employ  these  means,  even  with  ordinary  diligence, 
you  shall  have  within  yourself  the  consoling  sign,  that  you 
are  on  the  right  road,  which  leads  to  perfection. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


106 

the  very  atoms  that  fill  its  every  space,  so  Thy  grace 
gleaming  on  my  heart,  shall  bring  to  view  number- 
less defects,  the  existence  of  which  I did  nowise 
suspect. 

But  what  shall  it  avail  me  to  know  my  defects, 
if  I cannot  uproot  them?  Thy  help,  therefore,  is 
also  necessary  to  me,  who,  without  it,  can  effect 
nothing  conducive  to  salvation. 

Lord  Jesus,  by  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  I beg 
and  beseech  Thee,  grant  me  uninterruptedly  the 
plentifulness  of  this  two-fold  grace,  that  thereby  I 
may  be  enlightened  and  assisted. 

Without  this  grace,  no  assiduity  of  mine,  no  care 
of  a director,  however  much  he  may  toil,  whatever 
zeal  he  may  exercise,  can  aught  avail. 

Thou,  therefore,  O Jesus,  the  eternal  Wisdom, 
the  infinite  Goodness,  Thou  art  the  supreme  Direct- 
or: do  Thou,  I pray,  guide  me,  through  him  whom 
Thou  mayst  will  to  hold  Thy  place,  and  with  whom 
I am  willing  to  act  in  all  things  as  with  Thyself. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

THAT  HE  WHO  DESIRES  TO  FOLLOW  THE  HEART  OF 
JESUS,  MUST  ALSO  WITHDRAW  HIS  HEART  FROM 
THE  WORLD. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Woe  to  the  world,  Mv 
Child:  woe  to  the  heart  that  clings  to  its  allure- 
ments and  its  vanities ! 

It  is  not  enough  to  cast  Satan  out  of  thy  heart. 


CHAPTER  ^VI. 


107 

thou  must  also  expel  the  world.  If  thou  inwardly 
cherish  the  world,  whatever  else  thou  mayst  do 
wholly  to  amend  thyself,  shall  avail  thee  little. 

For  the  world  will  continue  to  infect  thy  heart, 
will  doubtless  pervert,  and  finally  betray  thee  into 
the  power  of  the  demon. 

2.  What  is  the  world,  except  an  inordinate  or 
perverse  love  of  pleasure,  riches,  honors;  whereby 
its  votaries  are  themselves  corrupted  and  corrupt 
others  ? 

If  thou  desirest  to  know  what  thou  oughtest  to 
think  of  the  world,  consider  what  I Myself  have 
judged  of  it. 

Behold!  I passed  through  life  doing  good  to  all; 
I loved  the  enemies  that  persecuted  Me;  when  fast- 
ened to  the  Cross,  I prayed  for  those  that  crucified 
me;  but  for  the  world  I prayed  not. 

The  world  is  of  the  devil,  is  wholly  placed  in 
wickedness,  and  cannot  possess  My  Spirit:  even  as 
falsehood  cannot  be  truth,  as  corruption  cannot  be 
purity. 

3.  The  world  is  itself  a proof,  not  only  of  the 
undeniable  existence — but  even  of  the  necessity  of 
a hell. 

What  can  there  be  in  common  between  the  world 
and  My  Heart,  since  the  world,  either  openly  or 
secretly,  favors  every  vice;  whilst  My  Heart  breathes 
naught,  except  what  is  holy  ? 

The  world  in  league  with  Satan,  its  prince,  seeks 
for  souls  to  destroy  them  forever;  My  Heart  longs 
to  save  them  all. 

Thou  canst,  therefore,  not  serve  the  world  and 
Me:  for,  if  thou  art  the  friend  of  the  world,  thou 
becomest  the  enemy  cf  Mv  Heart. 


io8 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


4.  If  thou  art  a votary  of  the  world,  thou  wilt 
perish  with  the  world:  but  if  thou  followest  My 
Heart,  thou  wilt  go  into  life  everlasting. 

If  thou  drivest  the  world,  and  the  maxims  of  the 
world,  from  thy  heart,  so  as  to  offer  it  wholly  to  Me, 
the  offering  will  be  pleasing  and  honorable  to  Me, 
and  full  of  glory  and  merit  to  thyself.  The  Angels 
and  the  Saints  will  applaud  the  deed,  and  the  world 
itself  shall  be  compelled  to  admire  the  lofty  hero- 
ism of  thy  mind. 

Blessed  is  he,  My  Child,  who  withdraws  his  af- 
fections from  the  things  of  the  world,  and  conse- 
crates them  to  Me  alone! 

5.  What  findest  thou  in  the  world,  on  account  of 
which  thou  wouldst  love  it?  Behold!  all  that  is 
in  the  world,  is  the  desire  of  the  flesh,  the  lust  of 
the  eyes,  and  the  pride  of  life.  And  the  end  of  all 
these  is  death  and  hell. 

If,  then,  thou  lovest  the  world,  or  the  things 
which  are  of  the  world,  thou  takest  into  thy  em- 
brace everlasting  perdition. 

What  good  has  the  world  done  to  thee,  that  thou 
wouldst  devote  thy  affections  to  it?  It  has  done, 
and  never  will  do  thee  aught  but  evil.  How,  then, 
canst  thou  give  thy  heart  to  it? 

Trust  not,  My  Child,  to  the  smiles  and  blandish- 
ments of  the  world;  they  show  only  a covert  desire 
to  deceive  and  destroy  thee. 

But  hearken  to  the  invitings  of  My  Heart,  that 
longs  to  save  thee  from  the  everlasting  misfortunes, 
which  the  world  is  preparing  for  thee. 

6.  If  thou  dost  not  forsake  the  world,  the  world 
will  forsake  thee,  when  thou  art  spent  and  worn  out 

its  service;  yea,  it  will  lau&h  and  mock  at  thy 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


iog 


destruction;  and,  when  thou  standest  most  in  need 
of  help,  thou  shalt  be  alone  and  powerless. 

Think  frequently,  which  of  the  two,  when  thou 
art  about  to  go  into  eternity,  thou  shalt  rather  wish 
to  have  followed,  the  world  or  Me. 

Do  freely,  therefore,  and  meritoriously  now,  what 
without  merit,  thou  shalt  be  forced  to  do  then. 

Apply  thyself  to  draw  thy  heart  from  the  love 
of  earthly  things;  and,  by  a complete  disengage- 
ment from  it,  to  triumph  over  the  world. 

Have  confidence,  My  Child,  I have  overcome  the 
world:  if  thou  art  willing,  thou  also  canst  vanquish 
it.  So  scon  as  thou  shalt  have  conquered,  I will 
give  thee  a most  delightful  place  in  My  Heart. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  how  fool- 
ishlv  have  I acted!  how  wickedly  have  I lived!  A 
willing  dupe,  I have  been  misled  by  the  false  ap- 
pearances of  pleasure,  of  riches,  of  honor;  I have 
forsaken  Thee,  to  make  myself  a slave  of  the 
world,  Thy  enemy. 

I have  left  the  fountain  of  every  good,  to  go  down 
to  the  pestilential  pool  of  the  world.  There  made 
I myself  drunk  with  poisonous  draughts;  I gre'W 
senseless,  and,  in  my  madness,  I cast  aside  every- 
thing. 

I became  forgetful  of  Thee,  my  God  and  my  all; 
I gave  myself  wholly  to  the  world ; and  in  its  serv- 
ice, I unhallowed  Thy  gifts,  my  external  senses, 
and  the  inward  powers  of  my  soul. 

Alas!  I became  exceedingly  guilty:  my  soul  was 
filled  with  iniquity:  I drew  myself  nigh  to  hell. 

Thy  wrath  came  upon  me,  and  Thy  terrors 
troubled  me,  so  that  night  and  day  I was  wretched. 

8.  Alas!  good  Jesus!  even  after — seized  with  a 


TIO 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


great  dread  of  Thy  judgment  and  fear  of  hell — I 
had  resolved  to  lead  a good  life,  into  what  fatal 
illusion  did  I fall!  hovr  banefully  did  I go  astray1 

I divided  my  heart  between  Thee  and  the  world: 
1 washed,  at  one  and  the  same  time,  to  serve  Thee 
and  the  world. 

O!  how  great  an  insult  did  I offer  to  Thee,  when 
I placed  Thee  on  an  equality  with  the  wrorld!  I 
pleased  neither  the  world  nor  Thee:  and,  mean- 
while, I wras  most  wretched,  because,  not  being  sat- 
isfied with  the  wTorld,  nor  wfith  Thee,  I found  true 
happiness  in  neither. 

But  now  that  Thou  didst  open  my  eyes,  and 
move  my  heart,  behold!  O Lord  Jesus,  I vTill  serve 
The  done:  I give  my  whole  heart  to  Thee  for- 
ever. 

Take  out  of  my  heart,  I beseech  Thee,  all  affec 
tion  for  the  wTorld:  change  for  me  all  its  apparent 
sweets  into  real  bitterness. 

So  fill  me  with  the  delight  of  Thy  love,  that  the 
world,  with  all  its  vanities,  become  tasteless  to  me. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

HOW  DECEITFUL  THE  WORLD  IS. 

i.  The  voice  o } Jesus. — My  Child,  the  whole 
world  is  made  up  of  deceits,  and  by  its  arts  and 
wiles,  it  allures  to  itself  the  unwary. 

It  holds  out  to  man  pleasures,  honors,  and  riches; 
and  says,  all  these  things  wall  I give  to  thee,  if 
thou  serve  me. 


CHAPTI'X  XVII. 


Ill 


But  attend  thou,  not  to  what  it  promises,  but  to 
what  it  gives. 

Through  the  deceitful  hope  of  pleasant  things, 
it  brings  its  votaries  beneath  the  cruel  tyranny  of 
the  passions,  and  thence  leads  them  to  the  ceaseless 
tortures  of  the  stings  of  conscience. 

Didst  thou  ever  find  a worldling,  even  the  most 
fortunate,  whose  heart  was  every  way  satisfied  ? 
Neither  shalt  thou  find  such  a one,  even  if  thou 
searchest  the  whole  earth. 

The  world,  indeed,  promises  good  things;  but,  in 
reality,  it  bestows  true  evils  only;  because  what 
it  gives,  makes  man  wicked,  and  hinders  him,  by  no 
means,  from  being  truly  unhappy. 

2.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — Yet,  O Lord,, 
worldlings  frequently  obtain  possession  of  those 
things  which  they  covet;  and,  therefore,  they  care 
little  for  the  spiritual  distresses  of  the  heart. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Even  so,  Mv  Child:  grant  that 
they  abound  in  whatever  things  they  may  lust  after 
in  this  world:  as  they  possess  them  with  an  inordi- 
nate affection,  and  misuse  them,  they  enjoy  them 
not.  except  for  their  present  and  future  unhappi- 
ness. 

Besides,  they  appear,  indeed,  not  to  care  for  the 
interior  tortures  of  the  soul;  but,  My  Child,  if  thou 
couldst  look,  as  I do,  into  their  hearts,  thou  shouldst 
see  how  many  things  they  suffer  within,  which  they 
endeavor  to  hide  outwardly,  and  thou  would st  con- 
clude that  the  happiness  of  man  consists,  not  in 
having  an  abundance  of  the  things  of  this  world, 
but  rather  herein,  that  he  keeps  his  heart  free  from 
every  worldly  object,  and  calmly  and  permanently 
satisfied  in  Me. 


i 12 


THE  EIRST  BOOK 


Moreover,  how  long  shall  these  things  of  world- 
lings last?  Behold!  yet  a little  while,  and  eternity 
shall  summon  them  to  appear.  What  then  shall 
the  plentifulness  of  delights  and  other  things  avail 
them  ? They  shall  leave  the  world,  taking  with  them 
nothing,  except  the  load  of  their  sins. 

Wouldst  thou,  then,  be  willing,  for  the  misuse 
of  the  things  of  time,  to  lose  the  use  of  those  of 
eternity?  or,  for  the  false  possessions  of  earth,  to 
forfeit  the  true  riches  of  heaven  ? 

3.  My  Child,  if  thou  cleavest  to  the  world,  thou 
ceasest,  in  fact,  to  be  a Christian,  and  thou  foregoest 
the  possession  of  all  the  privileges  which  belong  to 
that  noble  name. 

For,  at  thy  new  birth,  in  the  waters  of  Baptism, 
thou  didst,  by  a solemn  promise  made  before  heaven 
and  earth,  renounce  the  world  and  its  wickedness; 
nor  would  I,  without  that  promise,  have  adopted 
thee  as  My  Child. 

If,  after  this,  thou  goest  again  over  to  the  party 
of  the  world,  thou  art  not  only  faithless,  but  even 
worse  than  the  heathen,  who  made  no  such  promise. 
For  it  is  better  not  to  promise  than  not  to  make 
good  what  is  promised. 

4.  Ask  the  departed,  what  they  think  of  the 
world.  The  Elect  will  answer,  that  their  happiness 
began  from  the  time  they  learnt  to  despise  the  things 
of  earth:  and  the  reprobate  will  reply,  that  they 
were  deceived  and  ruined  by  the  world. 

Thyself,  My  Child,  shalt,  one  da}T,  think  and  ex- 
perience concerning  the  world,  the  one  or  the  other 
of  these  things. 

Be  timely  wise,  My  Child,  lest  hereafter  thou  feel 
sorrow  to  no  purpose:  follow  the  footprints  of  the 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


1*3 

Saints,  by  withdrawing  thy  heart  from  the  world, 
and  keeping  thy  affections  from  its  contagion. 

5.  Use  the  things  of  this  world,  as  if  thou  didst 
not  use  them;  and,  whilst  thou  treadest  the  earth 
with  thy  foot,  have  thy  heart  in  heaven. 

The  more  thou  shalt  withdraw  thyself  from 
creatures,  the  nearer  shalt  thou  come  to  the  Creator; 
and  the  more  proper  shalt  thou  be  to  receive  divine 
gifts. 

If  thy  heart  be  wholly  disengaged  from  the  world, 
so  far  from  being  hurtful  to  ihee,  the  world  itself 
will  be,  in  many  ways,  subservient  to  thy  interests. 

O,  how  base  the  whole  world  would  grow^  in  thy 
sight,  if  thou  didst  truly  consider,  what  awaits  thee 
in  eternity! 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Truly,  O Lord,  the 
world  is  a deceiver.  Such  have  I experienced  it 
to  be,  to  mv  own  loss. 

When  it  offered  me  its  own  favors,  madman  that 
I was,  I believed  that  thereby  I should  be  happy. 
But  Oh!  how  greatly  was  I deceived!  how  truly 
wretched  was  I,  even  when,  giddy  with  worldly 
love,  I fancied  myself  most  happy! 

The  animal  man  within  me  made  me  imagine 
that  I was  happy,  whilst  I was  feeding  on  the 
husks,  which  the  world  threw  before  me:  and  in 
spite  of  myself,  I groaned  full  often  beneath  the 
degradation  of  my  slavery,  beneath  the  burden  of  my 
heart’s  misery. 

I fully  acknowledge  now,  that  I was  myself  the 
author  of  my  own  unhappiness;  and  that  I can,  with 
justice,  blame  no  one  except  myself. 

Because  I was  unwilling  to  serve  Thee  with  joy 
and  gladness  of  heart,  amid  the  abundance  of  all 


SI4 


THE  FIRST  ROOK. 


things.  I became  a slave  to  Thy  enemy  and  to  mine, — 
served  him  in  hunger,  and  thirst,  and  every  warn, 
in  so  far  even,  that  I delighted  to  fill  myself  with 
the  food  of  the  vilest  animals. 

7.  Would,  O Lord,  that  I could  blot  out  from 
the  number  of  my  years,  those  during  which,  es- 
tranged from  Thee,  I served  the  world! 

What  fruit  do  I now  reap  from  them,  except  bit- 
terness, stings  of  conscience,  anguish  of  heart,  sins 
to  be  atoned  for,  either  in  this  life  by  sorrow,  or  to 
be  bewailed  in  vain  in  the  next? 

Be  gracious  to  me,  O my  Saviour!  and  forgive 
me  all  my  offenses,  which  I committed  by  following 
the  world,  and  which  I now  detest  from  my  inner- 
most heart. 

Suffer  no  more,  I entreat  Thee,  that  my  heart 
cling  again  to  aught — even  the  least  object — of  this 
wicked  world:  withdraw  it  wholly,  with  all  its 
affections,  from  the  false  tinseling  of  earth,  which 
contains  naught  except  deceit,  emptiness,  and 
affliction  of  heart. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

THAT  TO  SERVE  THE  WORLD  IS  A CRUEL  SLAVERY. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  he  that  loves 
to  serve  the  world,  knows  not  the  world. 

The  world  is  a true  tyrant:  and  wretched  slaves 
are  they  that  serve  it. 

How  many  things, — what  sacrifices  does  it  not 
exact  from  its  votaries,  whom,  for  all  their  services, 
it  repays  with  unceasing  evils! 


CH/i.r'i'ER  ~VIII. 


J1S 

It  demands,  that  its  slaves  become  the  base  tools 
of  their  passions;  that  they  sacrifice  body  and  soul; 
that  they  damn  themselves  without  complaint. 

And  when  it  has  completed  their  destruction,  it 
forsakes  them  as  useless  wretches,  fit  only  for  hell- 
fire. 

2.  Oh!  at  how  great  a cost  do  worldlings  pui- 
chase  their  own  ruin!  If  they  did  for  Me  the  half 
of  what  they  do  for  the  world,  how  happy  should 
they  be,  and  what  Saints! 

How  cruel  is  the  world’s  slavery!  under  it,  how 
many  interior  sufferings  must  be  undergone!  what 
hardships  endured!  And  all  this  for  the  hope  of 
obtaining  such  things  as,  when  once  tasted,  cause 
death;  or  such  as  will  produce  tortures,  either  at 
present,  by  the  irksome  possession  of  them,  or  after 
awhile,  by  a bitter  separation. 

Truly,  it  is  an  iron  yoke  which  presses  on  the 
neck  of  worldlings,  the  weight  of  which  no  one  does 
fully  know,  unless  he  either  tried  it,  or  considers  k 
as  he  stands  on  the  threshold  of  eternity. 

3.  Whoever  desires  to  be  saved  must  separate 
his  heart  from  the  world. 

There  are  those  who,  by  their  mode  of  life,  having 
outwardly  bidden  farewell  to  the  world,  inwardly 
captivated  by  the  world,  in  most  things,  govern 
themselves  by  worldly  sentiments. 

There  are  others,  whom  their  condition  in  life 
obliges  to  live  exposed  to  the  dangers  of  the  world; 
who  yet  have  so  divested  themselves  of  every  affec- 
tion for  the  world,  that  they  never  defile  themselves 
with  aught  that  is  worldly. 

It  is,  therefore,  not  the  kind  of  life  which  he 
leads,  nor  the  shape  of  the  dress  which  he  wears. 


no 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


that  connects  a man  with  the  world,  or  estranges 
him  from  it;  but  the  affection  of  the  heart,  the  dis- 
position of  the  soul. 

Wherefore,  he  that  is  farthest  separated  in  heart 
from  the  wrorld,  and  most  closely  united  to  Me,  he 
is  dearest  to  My  Heart,  in  whatever  state  of  life  he 
may  live. 

Wherever,  then,  My  divine  Will  may  have  placed 
thee,  there  do  thou  serve  Me  in  holiness.  Since,  in 
every  state  or  condition  of  life,  which  is  good  in  it- 
self, thou  canst  live  for  Me,  and  sanctify  thyself: 
although  it  remains  true,  that  a state  of  life  sepa- 
rated from  the  world,  conduces  most  to  secure  sal- 
vation, and  to  reach  perfection. 

4.  How  many  followers  of  the  world  there  are,  vho, 
convinced  of  the  world’s  wickedness,  see  the  necessity 
of  renouncing  it  by  a change  of  life;  yet,  dare  not 
do  so,  too  fearful  lest  the  world  may  rail  at  them. 

Js  this  your  fortitude,  ye  friends  of  the  world? 
Great-souled,  forsooth,  ye  are  all,  who,  through  fear 
of  empty  talk,  dare  not  do  what  faith  dictates,  what 
reason  approves,  what  your  greatest  interest  de- 
mands. 

What  are  words,  but  sounds  passing  through  the 
air  and  disappearing?  Can  they  stir  so  much  as 
a hair  of  the  head  ? 

5.  Shalt  thou  be  so  fainthearted,  My  Child,  that, 
for  the  sake  of  such  words,  thou  wouldst  draw  on 
thyself  ruin  in  time  and  in  eternity  ? 

Choose,  either  to  serve  Me,  to  be  blissful  in  My 
service,  and  to  enjoy  the  enduring  delights  of  heaven 
hereafter:  or,  to  serve  the  world,  to  lead  inwardly 
a wretched  life,  and,  at  last,  to  undergo  torments 
never-ending. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


II? 

Behold!  life  and  death,  good  and  evil  are  placed 
before  thee:  whatever  thou  dost  prefer,  shall  be 
given  thee. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O kind  Jesus!  how 
could  I falter  in  my  choice?  Wretched  me!  how 
could  I ever  choose  what  was  to  render  me  so  un- 
happy! 

O infinite  Goodness,  O my  God!  Thou  hast 
freed  me  from  error,  and  hast  taught  me  the  truth. 

Behold!  now  I am  wholly  Thine  forever,  O 
Jesus,  my  true  beatitude! 

Away  with  thee,  deceitful  world,  most  wicked 
seducer,  enemy  of  God,  and  of  my  salvation;  thou 
foe  of  all  that  is  good,  thou  defender  of  all  that  is 
evil;  O thou,  the  most  cruel  of  all  tyrants! 

O world,  thou  minister  of  Satan!  too  late  have  I 
known  thee:  too  long  have  I loved  thee.  From 
this  hour,  farewell  to  thee,  farewell  for  evermore! 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

THAT  THE  YOKE  OF  JESUS  IS  TRULY  SWEET. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Come,  My  Child,  take  up 
My  yoke  upon  thee;  for  My  yoke  is  sweet,  and  My 
burden  light. 

My  service,  Child,  is  not  that  of  a tyrant,  nor  of 
a harsh  master;  but  of  a most  loving  Father,  who  is 
near  His  children,  who  are  submissive  to  Him,  that 
He  may  help  and  entertain  them. 

Love  is  the  spirit  of  Mv  service:  and  love  finds 
all  things  easy. 


n8 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


My  commands  are  not  heavy;  and  to  those  that 
love,  they  are  exceedingly  light  and  sweet. 

Try  and  taste  My  Child,  how  pleasant  it  is  to 
serve  Me;  how  delightful,  to  enjoy  My  sweetness; 
how  gocd,  to  gain  possession  of  the  very  fountain 
of  all  good  things. 

2.  If  thou  seekest  delights,  thou  shalt  find  the 
true  ones,  in  My  service  alone. 

All  the  pleasures  of  the  world,  are  either  empty 
or  pernicious.  But  My  consolations  surpass,  be- 
yond comparison,  all  the  delights  of  earth:  they 
ravish  hearts  by  their  purity,  they  satiate  them  by 
their  truth. 

Yea,  betimes,  they  so  overwhelm  man,  that  they 
give  him  a certain  foretaste  of  those  heavenly  de- 
lights, wherewith  the  Blessed  in  Paradise  are  in- 
ebriated. 

3.  He  that  serves  Me,  is  not  as  the  slave  of  the 
world,  who  toils  to  gather  for  himself  treasures  on 
earth,  and  in  the  end,  finds  his  hands  empty. 

But  he  lavs  up  for  himself  treasures  in  heaven, 
where  neither  the  rust,  nor  the  moth,  can  destroy; 
where  thieves  cannot  dig  them  up,  nor  carry  away. 

All  the  wealth  of  earth,  compared  with  the  treas- 
ures of  heaven,  is  only  dust  and  nothingness. 

4.  If  thou  aimest  to  be  honored,  behold!  what 
greater  honor  can  be  desired,  than  to  be  wTith  Me, 
to  be  approved  and  distinguished  by  Me  ? 

The  glory  of  the  world,  wherewith  one  man  de- 
ludes the  other,  is  false  and  shortlived*  but  the 
glory  of  My  service  is  true,  and  shall  endure  for- 
ever. 

Greater  is  the  least  of  My  servants,  than  the  lord 
0/  a kingdom  in  the  world. 


CHAPTEi.  KIX. 


IIQ 

Was  there  ever  found  a man,  who,  at  the  hour 
of  death,  repented  that  he  had  served  Me?  Yet,  at 
that  last  moment,  how  exceedingly  do  worldlings 
regret  to  have  been  in  the  service  of  the  world!  or 
if  they  bewail  it  not,  how  much  more  wrretched  are 
they! 

Truthful  is  the  saying,  My  Child,  that  he,  who 
serves  Me  faithfully  during  life,  possesses  two 
heavens,  the  one  in  time,  the  other  in  eternity:  and 
that  he,  who  spends  his  life  in  the  service  of  the 
wicked  world,  endures  two  hells,  one  now,  another 
hereafter. 

6.  Courage!  then,  My  Child;  bend  thyself  be- 
neath the  yoke,  which  is  borne  by  the  Angels  in 
heaven,  and  the  Elect  on  earth;  and  beneath  which 
they  enjoy  true  bliss. 

Take  it  up  joyously,  and  bear  it  cheerfully. 
Thou  servest  the  same  Lord,  that  is  served  by  the 
Blessed  in  heaven.  Whilst  thou  imitatest  them  in 
their  service,  imitate  them  also  in  their  cheerfulness. 

Let  the  slaves  of  sin,  and  of  the  world,  be  sad: 
joy  and  exultation  are  the  portion  of  My  servants. 

Serve  Me,  then,  but  serve  Me  with  gladness:  let 
thy  heart,  for  jov,  cheer  up  thy  countenance;  and,  by 
thy  holy  gayety,  teach  the  world,  what  blessedness 
there  is  in  serving  Me. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — To  serve  Thee,  O 
most  benign  Jesus,  is  truly  sweet  for  me:  what 
then  must  it  be  for  those  that  love  Thee!  what  for 
those  that  have  centred  their  heart’s  affection  in 
Thee! 

If  I,  who  only  begin  to  love,  find  so  great  a 
sweetness  in  Thee;  in  what  sweetness  do  they  de- 
.ight,  who,  fondly  devoted  to  Thee,  with  a generous 


120 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


heart,  have  long  lived  for  Thee  alone;  are  admitted 
into  the  innermost  of  Thy  Heart,  and  partake  of 
all  Thy  bliss  most  plentifully! 

O Jesus,  unutterable  sweetness!  what  is  man 
that  Thou  exaltest  him  thus?  or  the  son  of  man, 
that  Thou  settest  Thy  heart  upon  Him  ? 

8.  Behold!  to  live  for  Thee,  to  comply  with  Thy 
Will,  is  not  to  serve,  but  to  reign.  In  Thy  service, 
no  one  is  a servant,  every  one  is  a King,  is  a Lord: 
for  thou  art  the  King  of  kings,  and  the  Lord  of 
lords. 

In  Thy  service,  no  one  is  a menial,  no  one  is 
miserable:  each  one  is  noble,  each  one  is  fortunate; 
for  Thou  art  the  King  of  glory;  honors  and  riches 
abound  in  Thy  house. 

In  Thy  service,  no  one  is  wicked;  and,  therefore, 
no  one  is  unhappy:  but  all  are  good,  happy  all: 
for  Thou  art  the  King  of  virtues,  the  peace  and  joy 
of  hearts. 

Blessed,  therefore-  are  the  undefiled,  who  walk 
in  Thy  law!  their  blessedness  is  ever-during:  for 
Thy  kingdom  is  the  kingdom  of  all  ages. 

O most  sweet  Jesus!  what  is  there  for  me  out- 
side of  Thee,  or  what  do  I desire  upon  earth  beside 
Thee?  God  of  my  heart,  Thou  art  my  life,  Thou 
my  blessedness,  Thou  my  portion  forever. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


Iz\ 


CHAPTER  XX. 

THAT,  WITHOUT  KEEPING  ANYTHING  TOR  OUR- 
SELVES, WE  SHOULD  GIVE  OUR  WHOLE  HEART 

TO  JESUS. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  give  Me  thy 
heart. 

To  release  thy  heart  from  sin,  and  from  the 
world,  is  not  enough:  thou  must,  moreover,  disen- 
gage it  from  thyself. 

As  the  complete  renouncing  of  sin  renders  the 
friendship  of  God  steadfast,  and  as  the  putting  away 
of  the  world,  and  its  vanities,  prepares  the  soul  for 
the  interior  life;  so,  the  forsaking  of  one’s  self, 
leads  to  union  with  Me. 

It  is,  therefore,  necessary  to  give  Me  thy  whole 
heart,  without  reserving  aught  for  thyself,  if  thou 
desirest  to  enjoy  that  blessedness,  than  which  there 
is  none  greater  in  this  life,  and  by  which  alone  thou 
canst  be  truly  happy. 

2.  Thy  heart,  Child,  is  Mine.  For,  when  it  had 
no  being,  I created  it;  when  it  was  lost,  I sought 
and  ransomed  it;  when  it  lay  an  easy  prey  to  the 
enemies,  that  were  going  to  carry  it  off,  I protected 
and  preserved  it.  Thus,  by  giving  Me  thv  heart, 
thou  dost  only  give  Me  what  is  Mine. 

But,  on  how  many  accounts  do  I deserve  its 
every  affection  1 What  good  dost  thou  possess,  in 
thy  body,  or  in  thy  soul  whether  in  the  natural  or 
the  supernatural  order,  which  thou  didst  not  re- 
ceive from  My  Heart  ? 

How  many  years  ago  shouldst  thou  have  been 


122 


U2  FIRST  BOOK. 


burning  in  hell,  if  I had  either  dealt  with  thee  ao> 
cording  to  thy  deserts;  or  had  not  preserved  thee 
from  sins  which  deserve  hell  and  its  iust  punish- 
ments i 

But  it  was  my  love,  Child,  that  dealt  with  thee 
in  so  sweet  and  wonderful  a manner;  the  love  of 
My  Heart,  w'th  which  I loved  thee  from  eternity, 
and  with  which,  even  till  nowT,  I have  never  ceased 
to  favor  tnee. 

Thy  whole  life  has  been  a succession  of  blessings, 
on  My  part,  uninterrupted  and  manifold:  nor  has 
there  Veen  any  point  of  time  which  was  not  marked 
with  some  new  favor. 

3.  And  what,  O Child  of  My  love,  do  I ask  of 
thee  in  return  for  all  these  thousands  of  favors? 
Surely,  whatever  I might  ask  of  thee,  and  what- 
ever thou  mig  test  be  ble  to  give,  would  be  far  be- 
low the  greatness  and  the  number  of  Mv  gifts.  Yet, 
one  thing  only  I demand,  thy  whole  heart;  it  is 
enough,  if  thou  give  Me  that. 

Thy  heart  excepted,  I care  naught  for  whatever 
thou  mayst  give;  because,  beyond  all  else,  I long 
for  thy  heart. 

4.  Upon  whom  canst  thou  bestow  thy  heart  with 
more  advantage?  Thou  canst  not  live  without 
loving,  and  without  giving  the  affections  of  thy 
heart  to  some  object. 

Wouldst  thou  give  thy  heart  to  the  demon,  thy 
sworn  and  relentless  enemy?  or  to  the  world,  the 
demon’s  corrupt  and  corrupting  ally?  Woe,  My 
Child,  a thousand  times  woe  to  thee,  if  thou  gives! 
it  to  either  of  these! 

Art  thou  desirous  of  reserving  the  affections  of 
thy  heart  for  thyself?  But,  Mv  Child,  if  thou 


CHAPTER  XX. 


123 


lovest  thyself  only,,  thou  shalt  find  a requital  in 
thyself  alone.  Now,  what  is  the  reward  of  self- 
love?  Behold,  self-love  digs  out  a hell,  ^nd  leads 
to  the  same. 

Give,  then,  thy  heart  to  Me,  Child:  I will  fill  it 
with  peace,  and  with  gladness,  and  with  bliss. 

5.  Do  not  desire  to  reserve  for  thyself  aught  of 
thv  affections:  for  if  thou  do  this,  thou  shalt 
neither  be  admitted  into  the  secrets  of  My  Heart, 
nor  shalt  thou  ever  be  able  to  taste  the  sweet- 
ness of  My  love:  nay  more,  thou  shalt  not  be 
able  to  keep  thyself  from  the  danger  of  being 
perverted. 

Yet  it  is  not  unusual  for  many,  even  those  who 
wish  to  be  considered  good  and  pious,  to  keep, 
through  self-love, — under  a specious  pretext, — an 
affection  for  some  one  or  other  created  object.  What 
is  there  more  frequent?  what  can  be  more  danger- 
ous ? what  more  baneful  ? 

I wish  to  possess  thy  whole  heart,  Child:  I am 
its  Lord;  I,  a jealous  God,  am  its  only  end,  its  sole 
beatitude. 

6.  Love,  then,  My  Child:  it  is  given  thee  to  lover 
to  love  is  necessary:  for  this  thy  heart  was  made 
but  love  thou  what  deserves  to  be  loved;  love  Me: 
and,  if  thou  cherish  aught  else  besides,  love  it  for 
love  of  Me  alone. 

When  beside  Me  thou  wilt  love  nothing  except, 
for  love  of  Me, — when  thou  givest  entrance  into 
thy  heart  to  nothing  except  to  Me,  or  for  love  of 
Me, — then,  at  last,  shalt  thou  possess  a heart  wholly 
pure. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  give  Me  thy  whole  heart, 
as  a burnt-offering,  for  an  odor  of  sweetness;  nor 


124 


THE  BIRST  BOOK. 


do  thou  take  it  back,  not  even  the  least  portion  oi 
the  same:  for  I hate  robbery  in  a holocaust. 

Be  ever  mindful  that,  whether  in  prosperity  or 
in  adversity,  there  can  be  nowhere  a better  place 
for  thv  heart  than  with  Me. 

7 . The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — It  follows,  then, 

0 Lord,  that  I must  also  disengage  my  heart  from 
all  self-love,  from  inordinate  affection  towards  my- 
self; so  that  I may  wholly  be  filled  with  Thy  love, 
and  may  live  by  Thy  Spirit  alone. 

Alas!  my  God,  here  is  the  labor,  here  is  the  dif- 
ficulty: there  exist  in  my  heart  so  many  things  ill- 
regulated,  and  these  I have  followed  so  long,  that 
to  live  according  to  them,  has  become  to  me,  as  it 
were,  a second  nature. 

Hitherto,  the  natural  disposition  of  my  heart, 
either  inclination  or  aversion,  has  been  almost  the 
sole  rule  of  my  life:  this  I have  followed,  in  my 
dealings  with  others,  in  the  undertaking  and  the 
execution  of  my  actions:  yea,  in  the  very  perform- 
ance of  my  practices  of  religion  and  piety. 

Hitherto,  with  grief  I must  own  it,  whatever 
pleased  my  natural  inclination,  I was  wont  to  pur- 
sue: whatever  displeased  it,  I abhorred. 

Hence,  I find  my  labors,  for  the  most  part,  void: 

1 see  that  well-nigh  all  my  actions  were  those  of 
self-love;  and  that  they  have  given  me,  in  return, 
the  fruits  only  of  self-love. 

And,  unless  Thou,  by  the  light  of  Thy  grace, 
hadst  showed  me  these  things,  I might  have  con- 
tinued with  them,  without  ever  suspecting  them. 
So  much  was  I blinded  by  self-love. 

But,  since,  by  Thy  gracious  kindness,  Thou  hast 
laid  open  before  my  eyes  these  baleful  evils  lurk- 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


125 


Lng  in  my  heart,  grant  me,  I beseech  Thee,  a spe- 
cial help  to  remove  them  altogether. 

I entreat  Thee,  O Lord,  suffer  naught,  which  is 
not  Thine,  in  my  heart:  if  ever  anything  foreign 
appear  therein,  oblige  me  forthwith  to  cast  it  out 
t>r  do  Thou,  even  against  my  will,  take  it  thence. 


CHAPTER  XXL 

OF  WATCHING  OVER  OUR  HEART. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  with  all  watch- 
fulness, keep  thy  heart  safe  for  Me:  for  from  it 
proceeds  either  life  or  death. 

The  greatest  and  most  pleasing  gift  thou  canst 
offer,  is  to  present  thy  whole  heart  irrevocably  to 
Me ; and  thou  canst  have  no  better,  nor  more  whole- 
some employment,  than,  to  preserve  thy  heart  faith- 
fully for  Me. 

In  vain  dost  thou  devote  thy  heart  to  Me,  if 
thou  do  not  guard  it  sedulously:  for  the  enemy, 
even  without  thy  being  fully  aware  of  it,  will  cor- 
rupt it  and  tear  it  away. 

2.  A man,  loose  in  heart,  and  given  up  to  out- 
ward things,  may,  indeed,  on  occasion  of  some  swift- 
passing fervor,  devote  his  feelings  to  Me;  but  soon 
when  this  warmth  of  devotion  disappears,  he  will 
fall  into  a worse  than  his  wonted  low  estate. 

A heart  not  watched  over,  is  rarely  self-present, 
and  more  rarely  still,  mindful  of  Me:  hence,  in  a 
short  time,  it  becomes  unfeeling,  and  grows  hard- 
ened against  things  spiritual. 

It  lies  open  to  every  one,  like  a public  thorough 


126 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


fare,  through  which  thoughts,  temptations,  errors 
of  every  sort  may  freely  pass. 

All  its  enemies  come  and  go  through  it;  and,  in 
various  ways,  disturb,  defile,  and  corrupt  it. 

A man,  given  to  outward  things,  never  seriously 
gives  heed  to  this;  and,  shrinking  from  the  very 
thought  of  dwelling  within  himself,  or  of  busying 
himself  with  what  goes  on  in  his  heart,  he  endeav- 
ors to  dee  from  himself,  or  to  turn  away  his  mind. 

And  thus  the  evil  grows  worse;  and,  from  day  to 
day,  the  condition  of  his  heart  becomes  more  dan- 
gerous. 

3.  If  thou  art  unwilling  to  be  the  victim  of  mis- 
eries so  great,  remove  their  causes,  and  the  effects 
will  cease. 

By  calling  to  mind  the  divine  Presence,  by  fre- 
quent recourse  to  Me,  check  thou  ail  levity,  and 
take  heed,  lest  thou  be  too  indulgent  to  thy  even 
changing  nature;  which  always  seeks  to  go  abroad, 
which  is  prone  to  vanity,  which  seeks  to  show  itself 
everywhere,  which  studies  continually  how  it  may 
gratify  the  senses. 

Shun  things  trifling  and  useless;  shut  out  all 
outer  things,  with  which  it  is  not  needful  to  busy 
thyself;  accustom  thyself  to  dwell  within  thyself, 
and  to  live  interiorly  in  such  a manner,  as  if  thou 
wast  alone  with  Me  in  the  world. 

Study,  always  and  everywhere,  to  possess  thyself 
and  to  be  self-collected:  to  this  thou  mayst  attain  by 
grace,  by  effort,  and  bv  practice,  so  that  it  will  be- 
come, as  it  were,  natural  to  thee. 

And,  when  thou  hast  acquired  it,  this  self-pres- 
ence of  the  mind  will  bring  its  own  reward.  For 
t is  a boundless  treasure  to  man. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


127 


4.  The  self-collected  man  keeps  watch  over  all 
the  avenues  of  the  heart;  Me,  his  God  and  Saviour, 
he  entertains  within  himself;  with  Me  he  deals 
generously,  with  Me  he  converses  familiarly. 

Everywhere  self-possesssed,  he  peacefully  enjoys 
the  Beloved  of  his  soul,  and  is  ever  saved  from 
wearisomeness,  and  from  numberless  fauhs. 

Whilst  inwardly  recollected,  he  makes  progress 
in  virtue;  and,  in  spite  of  every  obstacle,  he  hastens 
on  to  perfection. 

Wherefore,  allow  not  thy  spirit  to  grow  dissi- 
pated, My  Child;  neither  on  account  of  the  appear- 
ance of  external  objects,  nor  on  account  of  the  va- 
ried throng  of  circumstances,  nor  on  account  of  the 
urgency  of  labor,  nor  cn  account  of  the  comfortless 
inward  state  of  thy  soul. 

Observe  carefully,  with  what  objects  thy  heait 
busies  itself;  by  what  it  is  moved,  towards  what  it 
tends. 

Turn  thyself  wholly  to  interior  things;  and,  in- 
tent on  these,  preserve  inward  peace,  and  rejoice  in 
My  presence. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Grant  me,  I beseech 
Thee,  Lord  Jesus,  an  inward  spirit,  that  I may 
keep  my  heart  for  Thee,  that  I may  watch  over  its 
employments. 

For  I find  it  ever  busy  but,  by  reason  of  my 
neglectfulness,  it  heeds  neither  place,  nor  time,  nor 
objects. 

Behold!  frequently  have  I surprised  it  in  strange 
places,  pouring  out  its  feelings,  whether  of  love  or 
of  aversion,  distracted  with  emotions,  becoming 
stained  by  the  objects  which  engaged  it. 

Frequently  have  I found  it  to  steal  away  and  give 


128 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


itself  up  to  dissipation,  at  the  hours,  yea  at  the  very 
moments,  which  were  specially  consecrated  to  Thee; 
and  when  it  ought  to  have  been  praying  to  Thee, 
praising  Thee,  loving  Thee,  enjoying  Thee. 

How  often  have  I seen  it  engaged  with  objects 
vain,  or  even  forbidden,  when  it  should  have  occu- 
pied itself  with  things  good  or  useful ! 

When  unguarded,  it  slips  forthwith  away,  it  runs 
to  and  fro,  it  is  carried  towards  different  objects,  ac- 
cording as  it  is  swayed  by  different  impulses  of 
nature. 

It  is  never  at  rest:  when  it  escapes  from  one  ob- 
ject, it  is  entangled  in  another.  It  is  excited  by 
curiosity,  it  is  allured  by  cupidity,  it  is  misled  by 
vanity,  it  is  defiled  by  pleasure,  it  is  wasted  by  sad- 
ness, it  is  tortured  by  envy,  it  is  disturbed  by  love 
and  hatred,  it  is  worried  by  its  own  misery,  and  by 
worrying  itself  it  is  broken  down. 

Thus  is  my  heart  busied,  thus  is  it  defiled,  when 
\ watch  not  over  it,  or  when  I am  careless  about  it. 

6.  O Lord!  how  great  the  need  of  being  vigilant! 
How  great  the  need  of  guarding  my  heart!  It  must 
not  only  be  made  to  stay  at  home  in  recollection, 
but  it  must  also  be  kept  busy,  yet  only  with  Thee  or 
for  Thee. 

I must  examine,  then,  by  what  it  is  impelled, 
whether  by  nature  or  by  grace:  how  it  acts,  whether 
according  to  Tlw  good  pleasure,  or  according  to  its 
own  natural  likings;  what  it  has  ultimately  in  view. 
Thee  or  itself. 

And  I must  watch  constantly,  until  my  heart,  in 
some  manner,  has  grown  accustomed,  sweetly  and 
courageously  to  follow,  for  love  of  Thee,  the  motion 
of  grace. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


1 29 


O Jesus!  of  how  great  an  importance  is  this 
work!  whatever  efforts  be  needed  to  accomplish  it, 
behold!  I will  not  cease  to  pursue  the  same,  until 
I see  it  perfected. 

If  I loved  Thee,  if  I were  all  captivated  with  Thy 
love,  how  easily,  and  how  speedily  should  this  work 
be  completed!  For,  if  my  heart  were  filled  with 
love  for  Thee,  it  would  repose  in  Thee,  it  would  not 
stray  from  Thee: — in  Thee  it  would  find  its  happi- 
ness; all  else  it  would,  of  its  own  accord,  drive  off 
or  cast  away. 

O sweetest  Jesus!  how  wonderful  is  Thy  love! 
Replenish  Thou  my  heart  with  Thy  love  and  Thy 
grace,  and  my  heart  will  gladly  stand  watch  over 
itself,  will  zealously  reserve  itself  for  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


OF  THE  SHORTNESS  OF  THIS  LIFE. 


i.  The  voice  of  Jesus—  My  Child,  in  all  thy 
works,  remember  thy  last  end:  and  thou  shalt  never 
sin. 


Whilst  thou  hast  time,  do  whatever  thou  canst 
for  eternity,  mindful  that  thy  life  is  exceedingly 
short.  Soon  thou  must  return  to  the  earth,  out  of 
which  thou  wast  taken;  for  dust  thou  art,  and  into 
dust  thou  shalt  return. 

What  is  the  life  of  man  upon  earth?  A vapor, 
which  appears,  for  a little  time,  then  vanishes  away, 
and  leaves  not  even  a vestige  behind. 


I3° 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Ever  since  thou  wast  born,  thou  hast  not  ceased 
to  hasten  on  to  death;  neither  is  it  in  thy  power  to 
stay  thy  steps. 

2.  Think  over  the  time  thou  hast  lived.  Does  it 
not  appear  like  a dream?  Yet  know.  My  Child, 
that  it  shall  seem  still  more  so,  when  death  is  near, 
which  thou  must  meet  full  soon. 

For  what  is  even  the  longest  life?  Behold!  the 
number  of  man’s  days  are  threescore  and  ten  years: 
and,  if  he  be  among  the  powerful,  fourscore  years. 
But,  compared  with  eternity,  these  years  are  ac- 
counted as  a drop  in  the  waters  of  the  ocean. 

Nay  more,  the  time  of  this  life,  placed  in  com- 
parison with  the  endless  duration  of  the  life  here- 
after, is  only  a point.  Yet  on  this  point  is  hung 
thy  eternity,  whether  of  bliss  or  of  woe. 

Yea,  hadst  thou  lived  from  the  beginning  of  the 
world,  even  to  this  hour,  if  thou  wert  now  about  to 
die,  what  should  this  life  be  worth  to  thee,  when 
thou  art  entering  into  eternity;  in  which  there  are 
neither  days,  nor  years,  nor  ages,  but  which  flows 
perpetually  onward,  through  an  uninterrupted  for- 
ever. 

3.  Wherefore,  My  Child,  understand  well  the 
value  of  time.  Time  is  the  measure  of  life:  as 
much  as  thou  squanderest  of  time,  so  much  dost 
thou  lose  of  thy  life. 

Time  exceeds  in  value  all  the  treasures  of  this 
world.  With  all  the  riches  of  earth,  thou  couldst 
not  purchase  a second  of  time:  but,  with  time,  ever- 
lasting treasures  may  be  secured. 

Oh!  could  the  dead  return  from  eternity,  thinkest 
thou  that  they  would  misspend  even  a moment? 
that  they  would  not  employ  it ; some  to  free  them* 


CHAPTER  XXII.  13 1 

selves  from  punishments,  others  to  increase  their 
merits  ? 

But  alas!  though  nothing  is  more  precious  than 
time,  to  many  there  is  naught  more  wearisome. 

There  are  those, — not  only  among  persons  that 
follow  the  spirit  of  the  world,  but  even  among  such 
as  make  a profession  of  piety, — to  whom  time  seems 
a burden.  They  complain  of  its  dullness;  they 
love  to  waste  it;  they  rejoice  when  they  have  spent 
it  uselessly,  but  without  irksomeness. 

And  thus  they  squander,  in  dishonoring  Me,  and 
in  harming  themselves,  that  by  means  of  which  they 
were  able  and  obliged  to  glorify  Me;  to  help  their 
neighbor;  to  gather  treasures  of  merit  for  eternity. 

4.  Frequently  call  to  mind,  My  Child,  for  what 
purpose  thou  didst  enter  into  this  world.  Evidently 
for  none  other,  except  to  prepare  thyself  for  eter- 
nity. For,  what  else  is  the  present  life,  if  not  a 
novitiate  of  eternity? 

Whilst  this  brief  career  continues,  thou  hast 
numberless  duties  to  fulfill.  For,  there  are  thy 
many  faults  to  be  atoned  for;  thy  soul  to  be  saved 
and  sanctified;  hell  to  be  escaped;  Purgatory  to  be 
avoided;  heaven  to  be  secured;  thou  hast  a neigh- 
bor whom  thou  must  edify  and  help  to  life  ever- 
lasting; lastly,  thou  hast  to  honor  and  glorify  Me, 
in  a befitting  manner,  and  with  all  thy  powers. 

If  thou  do  not  this  during  life,  after  it,  time  shall 
be  no  more:  and,  throughout  eternity,  thou  shalt  bear 
the  consequences  of  thy  heedlessness  and  neglect. 

Time  is  Mine,  not  thine:  I have  lent  it  to  thee, 
that  thou  mayst  use  it  to  perform  those  things, 
which  I demand,  or  desire  of  thee. 

If  thou  squanderest  it,  thou  shalt  one  day  be 


1 32 


THE  FIRST  ROOK. 


held  to  a most  strict  account:  but  if  thou  usest  it 
well,  thou  canst  merit,  at  every  moment,  a new  de- 
gree of  grace,  and  of  ever-enduring  glory. 

5.  Hearken,  My  Child:  frequently  imagine  thy- 
self at  that  point,  when  time  shall  cease,  and  eter- 
nity begin:  and  weigh,  attentively,  what  thoughts 
will  then  occupy  thy  mind,  both  concerning  all  the 
past,  and  concerning  the  whole  future. 

Behold!  eternity  is  thy  dwelling-place:  eternity 
is  thy  country : eternity  is  thy  lasting  home. 

Thou  art  a traveler  and  a stranger  upon  earth; 
fleetly  thou  passest  over  it,  in  search  of  thy  kindred 
in  eternity.  Thither,  all  that  have  been,  that  are, 
and  that  shall  be,  must  repair.  There  all,  the 
great  and  the  small,  the  rich  and  the  poor,  the  well- 
formed  and  the  misshapen,  shall  be  without  distinc- 
tion, except  such  a one  as  arises  from  virtue. 

Yet  a little  time,  My  Child,  and  thou  also  shalt 
be  there. 

There  shalt  thou  live:  yea,  live  an  endless  life. 
Behold!  what  a lofty  thought,  My  Child!  Time 
shall  wing  away  its  flight,  ages  shall  succeed  to 
ages,  the  world  itself  shall  perish:  but  thou  shalt 
never  cease  to  be;  thou  shalt  never  cease  to  live. 
Oh!  would,  my  Child,  that  thou  didst  understand 
this  rightly! 

6.  If  thou  savest  not  thyself  for  eternity,  who 
will  save  thee?  Most  certainly,  no  one:  not  even 
I;  for,  although  I created  thee  without  thee,  I will 
not  save  thee  without  thee. 

And  if  thou  dost  not  now  work  out  thy  salvation 
and  perfection,  how  wilt  thou  do  it  hereafter? 
The  future  is  a time,  which,  perhaps,  thou  shalt  not 
have,  and  which  thou  canst,  by  no  means,  promise 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


*33 


to  thyself.  But  even  wert  thou  to  possess  it,  the 
matter  would  grow  more  difficult  from  day  to  day 
and  would  induce  thee  to  delay  still  farther:  and 
thus  thou  shouldst  stand,  at  the  gates  of  eternity, 
still  unprepared. 

Believe  every  day  to  be  the  last,  and  live  each 
day  in  such  a manner,  that,  when  the  Son  of  man 
comes,  far  from  fearing,  thou  mayst  be  able  to 
rejoice  at  His  coming. 

Blessed  is  he  whom,  when  I come,  I shall  find 
thus  employed.  Verily,  I say,  I will  place  him 
over  all  My  possessions. 

7 The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  how  short 
is  life,  and  how  many,  and  what  great  things  have 
to  be  done  during  it!  But,  alas!  how  have  I spent 
hitherto  the  time  of  my  life! 

All  these  things  of  supreme  importance,  which 
Thou  gavest  me  to  do  for  eternity,  I have  over- 
looked, as  if  they  were  of  little  or  no  worth. 

O blindness!  O wickedness  of  mine!  Although 
these  things  deserve  to  be  wept  over,  with  tears  of 
blood,  oh!  would  that  they  were  my  worst  trans- 
gressions! Woe  is  me!  I have  employed  a great 
part  of  the  time  of  my  life  in  tormenting  and  griev- 
ing Thy  Heart,  in  committing  and  heaping  up  sins 
for  myself. 

Much  of  it  have  I wasted  in  serving  the  world, 
in  seeking  after  its  empty  possessions,  in  pursuing 
its  fruitless  glory,  deceitful  pleasures,  trifles  of 
e very  kind. 

Much  of  it  have  I squandered  in  satisfying  my- 
self, in  fostering  self-love,  in  gratifying  the  inclina- 
tions of  nature,  yea,  even  in  things  which  other- 
wise were  good  and  pious. 


I34 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


O my  Saviour!  how  wretchedly  have  I lived! 
Instead  of  virtues  and  merits,  I have  gathered  wood, 
and  straw,  and  stubble,  to  feed  the  fire,  and  burn 
myself  in  the  life  to  come. 

Pardon,  I entreat  Thee,  O pardon  the  evils,  I 
have  done:  grant  me  grace  to  redeem  lost  time,  to 
repair  the  past  and  make  it  good,  by  fervently  em- 
ploying what  still  remains  of  my  life,  in  those 
things  for  the  performing  of  which  it  was  given  me. 

The  source  of  my  misfortunes  was  that  I did 
not  love  Thee,  Lord  Jesus;  that  I felt  indifferent 
toward  Thee;  that  I was  defiled  with  a corrupt 
and  corrupting  love  for  other  objects. 

O my  God,  Thou  who  hast  freed  me  from  so  great 
a curse,  I beseech  Thee,  enkindle  my  heart  with 
that  fire  of  love  with  which  Thy  Heart  is  burning. 
This  most  hallowed  flame  will  utterly  destroy  my 
offenses;  this  will  arouse  me  faithfully  to  perform 
whatever  is  enjoined  to  secure  a blissful  eternity. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

OF  DEATH. 

i.  The  voice  o * Jesus . — My  Child,  remember, 
thou  must  die:  because  it  is  appointed  for  all  men 
once  to  die. 

Do  whatever  thou  wilt,  thou  canst  by  no  possible 
effort  escape  the  grasp  of  death.  The  Almighty 
Himself  has  fixed  the  bounds,  beyond  , which  none 
can  pass.  When  thou  hast  reached  them,  no  mat- 
ter what  may  be  thy  condition,  thou  shalt  die  the 
death. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


I3S 

Whilst  life  endures,  there  is  naught  more  certain 
than  death:  yet  there  is  naught  more  hidden  in 
uncertainty,  than  the  time  of  death,  and  its  attend- 
ant surroundings. 

Thou  knowest  not,  indeed,  when  thou  s'alt  die: 
yet,  hold  this  for  certain,  that  thou  shalt  die,  when 
thou  thinkest  not. 

Whether  thou  shalt  see  the  end  of  this  year,  or 
even  of  this  day,  of  that  thou  art  wholly  ignorant. 

Many,  counting  on  a long  life,  and  regardless  of 
making  preparation  for  death,  dream  of  much  to  be 
done  in  the  future;  when  suddenly  death  puts  an 
end  to  all  their  plans,  and  drags  them  away  into 
eternity. 

Whether  thou  shalt  die  at  home,  or  abroad,  of 
sickness,  or  by  violence;  whether  strengthened  with 
the  Sacraments,  or  deprived  of  their  soothing  com- 
forts, all  this  lies  hidden  in  the  mysterious  un- 
known. 

2.  However,  My  Child,  thou  shalt  die  only  once: 
if  once  thou  diest  well,  thy  everlasting  bliss  is  se- 
cured ; if  once  thou  diest  ill,  thy  destruction  is 
endless  and  irreparable. 

O inconceivable  stupidity  of  the  heart  of  man! 
Very  many  fear  not  to  live  in  a state  of  damnation; 
and  yet  it  is  certain,  that  they  shall  die  unexpect- 
edly. The  unchangeable  declaration  remains  firm: 
The  Son  of  man  will  come,  when  He  is  not  expected. 

For  a reason  worthy  of  God’s  Wisdom,  the  time 
of  His  coming  remains  hidden,  that  men  may  keep 
themselves  in  the  state  of  grace — ever  ready.  But, 
as  many  disregard  this,  it  happens  that  not  a few 
die  without  being  prepared,  and  in  a twinkling  are 
buried  in  hell. 


136 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Woe,  therefore,  to  them  whom  death  shall  over- 
take in  a bad  state!  When  they  are  dead,  hope 
shall  be  no  more;  because  from  a death  in  time, 
they  fall  into  the  death  of  eternity,  and  from  finite 
evils  they  pass  over  to  those  which  are  infinite. 

Most  wretched  is  the  death  of  sinners;  frightful 
is  the  death  of  the  lukewarm;  but  precious,  and 
filled  with  consolation,  is  the  death  of  them  that 
have  sanctified  themselves. 

Blessed  are  they  who  end  a saintly  life  with  a 
holy  death!  They  reach  the  end  of  their  labors, 
their  afflictions,  their  trials,  and  of  all  dangers,  and 
they  enter  into  a bliss  secure  and  complete. 

3.  How  differently  are  different  persons  im- 
pressed at  the  moment  of  death!  some  are  terror- 
stricken  at  the  thought  of  the  past,  of  the  present, 
and  of  the  future;  others  are  filled  with  comfort* 
these  feel  their  hearts  dilating,  those  feel  them 
compressed  with  anguish:  but  all  wish  that  they 
had  lived  piously. 

To  be  well  prepared  to  die,  is  the  greatest  conso- 
lation of  him  that  sees  the  near  approach  of  death. 

To  how  great  a danger  of  dying  unprepared  is  he 
exposed,  who  thinks  of  making  ready  only  when 
death  is  at  the  door!  then,  either  time  is  wanting, 
or  the  pangs  of  sickness  hinder  the  use  of  the  soul’s 
powers,  or  passions  still  have  their  wonted  sway, 
whilst  the  habit  of  neglecting  to  correspond  to 
grace  still  prevails;  and,  meanwhile,  the  devil’s  as- 
saults are  greater  than  ever  before. 

Look  forward,  then,  My  Child,  before  the  night 
overta’  e thee,  wherein  no  one  can  securely  work, 
but  when  every  one  begins  to  garner  wrhat  he  has 
sown. 


CHAPTER  XXIII.  137 

A good  life  is  the  best  preparation  for  death.  It 
is  generally  true,  that  he  that  lives  well,  dies  well. 

Daily,  before  retiring  to  thy  nightly  rest,  put  thy 
soul  in  order,  as  if,  the  same  night,  thou  hadst  to 
set  out  for  eternity. 

4.  Death  is  a good  counselor,  My  Child;  where- 
fore, before  thou  undertakest,  or  lea.est  off,  aught 
of  importance,  ask  advice  of  death,  that  thou  mayst 
know,  when  it  calls  thee,  what  thou  wouldst  like  to 
have  done,  what  thou  wouldst  regret  to  have  left 
undone. 

By  perfect  purity  of  heart  thou  canst  make  thy 
death  most  safe  and  consoling. 

Take  no  counsel  of  the  flesh  when  there  is  ques- 
tion of  securing  a happy  death;  but,  even  in  spite 
of  its  murmur ings,  pursue  what  is  good,  that,  in  the 
end,  thou  mayst  save  both  the  body  and  the  soul. 

After  death  thv  body  shall  become  the  food  of 
worms,  and  whatever  remains  of  it,  shall  be  the 
prey  of  corruption. 

Yet,  thereafter,  it  shall  arise  again,  whether  thou 
art  willing  or  not,  to  share  the  everlasting  destiny 
of  the  soul. 

Let  death  be  most  familiar  to  thee,  My  Child. 
If  thou  be  faithful  in  asking  its  advice,  and  in  fol- 
lowing it,  it  will  be  thy  solace  in  adversity,  it  will 
keep  thee  in  due  bounds  in  prosperity,  it  will  be 
useful  to  thee  in  all  things,  it  will  not  cease  to  do 
thee  good;  and,  in  the  end,  it  will  free  thee  from 
this  place  of  exile,  and  introduce  thee  into  thy 
blissful  country  in  heaven. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Is  it  possible,  Cl 
Lord,  that  any  one  will  hold  himseh  unprepared, 
when  at  any  moment  he  may  have  to  meet  death  ? 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


138 

My  conscience  bears  me  witness,  what  I shall 
wish  for  at  the  approach  of  death:  then  my  sole 
desire  shall  be  that  I had  led  a life  of  innocence; 
that  for  Thee  I had  kept  my  heart  undefiled;  that 
I had  sanctified  my  soul. 

But,  alas!  should  death  overtake  me  now,  I should 
wish  for  all  this  in  vain;  since,  as  yet,  I possess  no 
sign  of  holiness,  but  rather  many  marks  of  luke- 
warmness. 

O compassionate  and  merciful  Lord,  bear  with 
me  a little  while,  that  I may  weep  over  my  neglect- 
fulness, and  that  I may  do  what  I would  desire  to 
have  performed,  when  death  comes. 

6.  O my  soul,  soon  time  shall  be  no  more.  Let 
others  do  as  they  list:  let  us,  whilst  yet  there  is 
time,  devote  ourselves  to  the  work  of  our  salva- 
tion. 

Each  one  for  himself.  When  death  comes  no 
one  can  take  our  place;  nor  can  any  one,  in  our 
stead,  go  into  eternity.  Whatever,  therefore,  others 
may  say  or  do,  let  us  place  our  everlasting  destiny 
beyond  all  danger. 

And  what  means,  O Lord  Jesus,  can  be  better 
and  safer,  than  a true  love  for  Thee,  disengaged 
from  every  thing  besides;  since  this  both  cleanses 
us  from  our  faults,  and  renders  us  holy? 

If  I love  Thee  truly,  I will  not  fear  death,  nor 
aught  of  all  that  follows  thereafter.  Thy  love  will 
drive  away  fear:  Thy  love  will  enable  me  to  ap- 
proach Thee  with  confidence. 

Thou,  then,  O Jesus,  my  love,  be  Thou  hence- 
forth my  life.  If  Thou  art  my  life,  to  die  shall  be 
my  gain. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


139 


world,  to  myself,  that  I may  live  for  Thee:  let  me 
become  free  from  things  created,  and  be  made 
wholly  pure,  so  that,  when  death  opens  the  door,  I 
may  appear  before  Thee  rejoicingly. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

OF  JUDGMENT. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  so  soon  as  thou 
hast  gone  into  eternity,  thou  shalt  find  thyself  be- 
fore My  Judgment-seat,  to  give  an  account  of  thy 
life,  and  to  hear  the  decision  of  thy  lot  forever. 

I Myself,  the  Searcher  and  Knower  of  hearts, — • 
to  whom  all  power  is  given  in  heaven  and  on  earth, — ■ 
I will  preside  over  this  judgment. 

All  and  every  one,  whether  they  be  willing  or 
not,  must  make  their  appearance  before  Me,  the 
Judge  of  the  living  and  the  dead,  to  receive  the 
final  sentence:  nor  is  it  possible  thereafter  to  ap- 
peal to  another  tribunal. 

What  is  just,  I will  judge:  neither  by  gifts  nor 
by  promises  will  I be  conciliated;  nor  shall  the 
prayers  of  any  one  change  My  Heart;  neither  will 
I be  moved  by  repentance. 

That  day  shall  be  a day  of  justice,  not  of  mercy. 
Then  shall  each  one  receive  according  to  his  works. 

2.  What  shall  thy  feeling  be  then,  My  Child, 
when  thou  shalt  stand  alone  before  the  infinite 
Majesty,  with  naught  except  thy  works  alone,  whether 
they  be  good  or  evil? 

Then  will  the  devil  arise  in  judgment  against 
thee,  and  accuse  thee,  ready  to  drag  thee  into  hell. 


140 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


Thy  Guardian  Angel  will  stand  up  against  thee, 
to  bear  witness  to  the  truth  of  what  is  brought 
against  thee. 

Nay,  even  thy  own  conscience  will  accuse  thee, 
and  overwhelm  thee  with  alarm,  and  dread,  and 
terror. 

Thus  accused,  with  none  to  take  thy  defense, 
thou  shalt  wither  away  for  fear;  nor  shalt  thou  dare 
to  open  thy  mouth. 

3.  For  all  things,  whether  they  be  known  or  un- 
known, are  in  My  sight;  nor  is  there  any  thing  hid- 
den from  My  eyes. 

Yet,  searching  I will  search  the  heart,  from  the 
first  dawn  of  its  reason,  even  to  the  last  breath  c. 
its  life. 

From  it  will  I draw  forth  every  evil,  be  it  public 
or  private:  whether  its  own  work,  or  that  of  an- 
other; whether  great  or  small;  whatever  thou  hast 
committed  by  thought,  and  word,  and  deed,  and 
omission. 

And  not  only  of  things  evil,  but  also  of  thoie 
that  are  vain,  or  idle,  or  useless,  will  I exact  an 
account. 

Nay  more,  justice  itself  will  I judge:  I will 
weigh,  in  the  scales  of  the  sanctuary,  even  thy  good 
deeds,  and  see  what  was  wanting  in  them;  either 
in  the  motive,  in  the  manner  of  doing,  or  in  the  end 
intended,  scrutinizing  whether  all  was  supernatural 
and  perfect. 

Then,  many  things,  which,  during  life,  appeared 
good,  shall  be  found  void  and  evil. 

Then,  the  showy  semblances  of  the  virtues  of  the 
lukewarm,  shall  be  seen  as  they  are,  and  shall  be 
cast  aside,  as  dry  stubble,  fit  only  to  be  burnt. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


141 

And,  searching  still  further,  I will  seek  out  the 
fruit  of  all  the  favors  which  I bestow,  of  all  the 
graces,  of  all  the  means  of  salvation  and  perfectioii. 

Yea,  I will  summon  time  itself  against  thee,  and 
I will  thoroughly  investigate  in  what  manner  thou 
didst  use  it. 

4.  What  shalt  thou  do  then,  O sinner,  when  even 
the  just  shall  hardly  be  secure? 

Above  thee  thou  shalt  descry  a heaven  uncertain; 
below,  the  yawning  abyss;  at  thy  right,  Angels  as 
witnesses;  at  thy  left,  demons  enraged;  before  thee, 
the  supreme  Arbiter  of  life  and  death. 

5.  Ah!  My  Child,  now  act  with  care,  that  thou 
mayst  find  safety  then.  Now  it  is  easy,  then  it 
shall  be  impossible. 

Follow  now  the  invitings  of  My  mercy,  that  thou 
mayst  not  then  feel  the  severity  of  My  justice. 

Now  withdraw  thyself  wholly  from  a depraved 
world,  that  then,  with  reprobate  worldlings,  thou 
mayst  not  be  forced  to  hear:  Depart,  ye  accursed, 
into  everlasting  fire. 

Now,  untrammeled  by  aught  of  earth,  follow  thou 
the  Saints,  that  with  them,  thou  mayst  be  worthy 
then  to  hear:  Come,  ye  Blessed  of  My  Father,  pos- 
sess the  Kingdom  prepared  for  you  from  the  founda- 
tion of  the  world. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord!  how  much 
better  it  is,  here  to  examine  and  judge  myself 
strictly,  that  I may  not  be  condemned  before  Thy 
Judgment-seat! 

How  much  better,  here  to  weigh  well  all  my 
thoughts,  and  words,  and  deeds,  that  I may  plainly 
see  whether  they  are  good,  whether  they  are  wholly 
according  to  Thy  will,  whether  they  shall  be  able 


142 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


to  stand  Thy  searching,  and  deserve  Thy  ap- 
proval ! 

At  present  there  is  still  a remedy,  then  every 
effort  shall  prove  unavailing:  now  mercy  is  still 
offered  me,  then  justice  will  thunder  forth:  Give 
an  account  of  every  thing. 

Lord,  O Lord!  if  Thou  wilt  mark  iniquities,  who 
shall  endure  it?  If  Thou  searchest  also  things  in- 
different, yea,  even  those  that  are  good,  who  can 
stand  before  Thee? 

O Jesus!  although  I am  inwardly  rejoiced  that 
Thou,  and  none  other,  art  to  be  my  Judge,  yet, 
when  I reflect  that  I am  obliged  to  give  an  account 
of  matters  so  numerous  and  so  dreadful,  I tremble 
with  fear. 

For,  on  what  can  I rely,  when  even  my  good 
deeds  must  be  mistrusted  ? On  what  shall  I ground 
my  hope?  Behold!  naught  do  I find,  whereon  to 
place  a safe  reliance,  except  on  Thy  Heart. 

In  this,  therefore,  will  I hope:  for,  though  It 
shall  then  be  the  Heart  of  my  Judge,  yet  It  will 
still  remain  the  Heart  of  my  Jesus,  of  One  that 
loves  them  that  love  Him. 

O my  Jesus!  be  mindful  of  Thy  word,  in  which 
Thou  hast  given  me  hope:  for  Thou  hast  said:  Who 
loves  Me,  him  also  will  I love. 

If  I love  Thee,  and  am  loved  by  Thee,  then  will 
I surely  not  fear  to  come  and  appear  before  Thee. 

Lo,  therefore,  what  I will  do:  I will  love  Thee, 
most  lovely  and  most  loving  Jesus;  I will  love 
Thee  with  my  whole  heart,  and  love  Thee  all  the 
days  of  my  life. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


*43 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

OF  HELL. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  so  long  as 
men  live,  I do,  in  some  manner,  love  them  all; 
the  good  I cherish  with  a divine  affection;  the 
wicked  I.  tolerate,  because  I await  their  conver- 
sion ; and  I go  in  search  of  those  that  are  straying. 
My  Heart,  wherein  I bear  them  all  written,  deviser 
and  uses  a thousand  ways  and  means  to  save  all. 

But,  if  there  are  any  who  disappoint  the  hopes 
of  My  mercy,  if  they  come  to  judgment  laden  with 
the  guilt  of  grievous  sin,  confirmed  in  their  ob- 
stinacy; I will  blot  them  altogether  out  of  My 
Heart,  and,  with  the  thunderbolts  of  My  justice,  I 
will  hurl  them  into  the  depths  of  hell. 

2.  There,  they  are  bereft  of  heaven  and  all  its 
delights,  and  never  shall  they  behold  My  counte- 
nance in  the  kingdom  of  My  glory. 

They  endure  an  infinite  punishment:  because 
they  have  lost  an  infinite  good. 

Plunged  in  a shoreless  lake  of  fire,  they  burn 
and  suffer  for  evermore:  and  the  smoke  of  their 
tortures  mounts  up  unendingly. 

All  evils  rush  upon  them.  There,  every  sense 
of  the  body,  every  power  of  the  soul,  shall  have  its 
own  and  proper  punishment. 

In  that,  whereby  each  has  sinned,  shall  he  be 
specially  tormented:  as  much  as  he  has  delighted 
in  evil,  so  much  is  he  tortured  with  pain. 

There,  the  unclean  are  forever  devoured  with  a 
burning  heat,  overwhelmed  with  intolerable  stench 
gnawed  by  never-dying  worms. 


144 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


There,  the  wickedly  rich  are  oppressed  by  ex- 
treme want;  and  suffer  a most  frightful  hunger  and 
thirst,  nor  shall  they  find  relief  forever. 

There,  they  that  wrongly  sought  after  honors 
are  infinitely  debased,  and  despised  and  trodden 
under  foot  by  the  very  demons. 

There,  no  interruption  is  felt  in  torments,  not 
even  for  a moment;  but  they  continue,  and  shall 
continue  forever  and  ever. 

There,  every  one  receives  according  to  his 
deserts. 

3.  The  place,  the  masters,  the  company,  every- 
thing superadds  to  the  punishments,  in  an  incon- 
ceivable manner. 

What  can  there  be  more  terrible  than  the  dun 
gecns  of  hell,  where  no  ray  of  light,  no  order, 
tut  continued  darkness  and  everlasting  horror 
dwell? 

W hat  more  cruel  than  the  demons,  who  exhaust 
their  arts  to  invent  new  tortures,  and  their  strength 
to  inflict  them  ? 

W'hat  more  glcomy  than  that  wretched  throng 
of  sufferers,  howling  endlessly,  hopelessly?  As  many 
companions  as  there  are  suffering,  so  many  new 
torments  are  experienced. 

4.  Behold  1 so  shall  he  be  punished,  who  is  un- 
willing to  serve  Me,  his  God,  his  Creator,  his  Re- 
deemer, his  unwearied  Benefactor. 

As  I live,  every  knee  shall  be  bent  to  Me,  and  all 
nations  shall  serve  Me. 

Whoever  does  not  willingly  serve  My  Goodness 
in  time,  shall  unwrllingly  serve  My  justice  in  eter- 
nity. 

Be  not  amazed,  My  Child,  at  the  punishment  of 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


145 


the  damned:  they  themselves  are  not  astounded, 
but  confess  that  they  receive  things  worthy  of  their 
deeds. 

No  one  goes  to  the  torments  of  hell  against  his 
will:  all  the  reprobate  rush  thither  of  their  own 
free  choice;  therefore,  they  complain  of  no  one 
except  themselves. 

They  confess,  that  I am  infinitely  bountiful,  and 
acknowledge,  that  they  are  exceedingly  wicked. 

5.  The  gate  of  hell  is  sin;  the  paths  that  lead 
to  the  same,  whatever  allures  man  to  sin. 

How  many  have  perished  by  an  unlawful  desire 
for  pleasure,  by  an  inordinate  love  of  riches,  by  a 
wicked  pursuit  of  honors! 

Long  thou  for  naught,  My  Child,  which  may  en- 
tangle thee  in  its  toils,  and  afterwards  hurl  thee 
into  the  abyss. 

Nor  is  it  less  dangerous,  in  all  things  to  seek 
thyself.  How  many,  alas!  there  are,  who  seem  to 
begin  well,  but  who,  because  they  do  not  abandon  s If, 
relapse  at  length — are  thrust  into  deeper  evils,  and, 
finally,  are  miserably  lost! 

To  escape  hell,  therefore,  it  is  not  enough  to 
have  begun  well,  but  it  is  necessary  to  have  per- 
severed in  well-doing. 

Forsake  sin  and  the  world  forever,  lest  thou  be  in 
the  end  forsaken  by  Me:  forsake,  moreover,  thy- 
self, lest  by  thy  own  weight,  thou  be  dragged  down 
to  the  lowest  depths. 

Do  all,  dearly  beloved,  endure  all,  that  thou 
mayst  avoid  never-ending  torments.  All  the  labors 
and  afflictions  of  this  life,  are  as  naught,  when  com- 
pared with  the  sufferings  of  hell. 

Here  upon  earth,  in  a short  time,  there  shall  be 


146 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


an  end  to  labors  and  sorrows:  but  there  is  no  being 
redeemed  out  of  hell. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  our 
God!  how  awful  is  Thy  justice  in  eternity:  Never- 
theless, Thy  judgments  are  just,  yea,  acknowledged 
just  by  the  reprobate  themselves. 

But,  although  nothing  terrifies  me  more  than 
hell,  yet,  I know  of  nothing  better  adapted  to 
awaken  in  my  heart  a love  for  Thee. 

How,  indeed,  O Lord  Jesus,  can  I think  of  the  fire 
of  hell,  without  being  inflamed  with  love  for  Thee  ? 

What  is  there,  that  manifests,  in  a more  sensible 
manner,  the  bounty  of  Thy  Heart  towards  me? 
what  is  there,  that  presses  me  more  forcibly  to  love 
Thee  in  return  ? 

Behold!  if  Thou  shouldst  free  some  reprobate 
soul  from  the  torments  of  hell,  and  if  to  her,  thus 
restored  to  this  life,  Thou  shouldst  give  most  plen- 
tiful means,  whereby  she  might  not  only  save  her- 
self, in  an  easy  manner,  but  also  gain  an  everlasting 
throne  of  glory  in  heaven:  O how  would  that  soul 
love  Thee!  Would  she  think  that  she  could  ever 
be  able  to  show  Thee  sufficient  thankfulness  ? 
Could  she  ever  think  of  hell,  without  wholly  melt- 
ing with  love  for  Thee?  O how  pure  would  she 
keep  her  heart  for  Thee!  how  saint-like  would 
she  live  for  Thee! 

Now,  O Lord,  I am  indebted  to  Thee  for  much 
more  than  that  soul  should  be.  By  preserving  me 
from  the  pains  of  hell,  Thou  didst  far  greater  and 
better  things  for  me.  For,  is  it  not  a greater  and 
better  blessing  to  be  entirely  kept  from  an  evil, 
than  to  be  released  from  it,  after  having  undergone 
its  pangs  ? 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


147 


Yet,  these  things,  so  astonishing,  so  wonderful, 
so  sweet,  Thou  didst  do  for  me;  not  once,  not  twice, 
not  thrice,  but  as  often  as  I committed  mortal  sin. 

Had  I committed  no  mortal  sin,  my  obligation 
should  still  be  greater,  my  debt  of  gratitude  should 
be  increased,  as  well  as  my  reasons  for  loving  Thee. 
For  I should  be  infinitely  more  obliged  to  Thee. 

Had  not  the  infinite  goodness  of  Thy  Heart  pre- 
served me  by  grace,  how  long  ago  might  I have 
fallen  into  a sin  deserving  of  hell!  For  there  is 
no  sin  which  one  commits,  which  another  may  not 
also  commit,  unless  Thou  prevent  him  by  a special 
grace. 

Whatever,  then,  I may  have  been,  this  O most 
sweet  Jesus,  this  I owe,  first  of  all,  to  Thee,  that  I 
am  not  now  in  hell,  that  I am  still  able  to  gain 
heaven.  Thou  hast  freed  me  from  destruction; 
Thou  hast  freed  me,  according  to  the  multitude  and 
greatness  of  the  goodness  of  Thy  heart,  from  the 
depth  of  hell,  from  the  hands  of  them  that  lay  in 
wait  for  my  soul. 

Come  ye,  therefore,  and  I will  tell  you,  all  ye 
that  fear  the  Lord,  what  great  things  He  has  done 
for  my  soul. 

Should  I,  then,  not  love  Thee,  O Jesus,  infinite 
Goodness!  Should  I not  cherish  Thee!  yea,  I 
love  Thee,  I love  Thee  above  all  things;  and  I will 
continue  to  love  Thee  thus,  as  long  as  I have  being, 
forever  and  ever.  Thou  alone  shalt  possess  all  my 
affections:  for  Thee,  O Jesus,  will  I live,  for  Thee, 
alone,  to  whom  I owe  my  all. 


148 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

OF  HEAVEN. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  the  eye  has 
not  seen,  the  ear  has  not  heard,  nor  has  the  heart 
of  man  conceived,  what  things  I have  prepared  for 
them,  that  love  and  servo  Me  faithfully  to  the  end 

Who  can  portray  for  those  who  have  not  expe- 
rienced it,  what  heaven  is, — that  blissful  abode 
from  which  all  ills  are  banished,  in  which  there  is 
an  overflowing  of  all  good  things  ? 

No  labor  shall  be  there,  no  sorrow,  no  temptation, 
no  danger:  all  these  things  have  passed  away  with 
mortal  life;  they  have  given  place  to  perfect  rest,  to 
endless  joy,  to  a peace  that  cannot  be  disturbed,  to 
a security  that  none  can  take  away. 

2.  There  shall  be  neither  cold,  nor  heat;  neither 
inclemency,  nor  change  of  seasons;  neither  un- 
pleasant days,  nor  gloomy  nights.  Those  realms 
of  bliss  are  illumined  by  My  everlasting  glory, 
softened  by  the  divine  serenity  of  My  countenance, 
enlivened  by  the  infinite  sweetness  of  My  Heart  so 
hat  everything  smiles  in  the  purest  light,  in  the 
newness  of  a heavenly  spring,  for  evermore. 

Blessed  are  they  that  dwell  therein!  They 
neither  hunger,  nor  thirst;  nor  are  they  subject  to 
aught  that  is  unpleasant;  nor  shall  they  be  weak- 
ened in  vigor  forever. 

There  they  are  replenished  and  inebriated  from 
the  torrent  of  the  delights  of  God;  they  flourish  in 
perpetual  youth,  and,  immortal,  they  shine  brighter 
than  the  sun  for  all  eternity. 

3.  My  Child,  there  thou  shalt  behold  Me  as  I 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


149 


am,  and  gaze  upon  Me  face  to  face,  in  the  most  en- 
trancing splendors  of  My  Majesty. 

There,  by  the  intuition  of  My  infinite  perfections, 
thou  shalt  be  rapt  with  admiration,  and  overflow 
with  bliss;  in  the  excess  cf  thy  joy  thou  shah,  of 
thy  own  accord,  burst  forth  in  boundless  praises, 
and  exaltation  of  My  most  lovely  Attributes. 

Then  also  thou  shalt  understand  the  mysteries 
of  faith,  and  the  secrets  of  nature. 

All  the  science  of  philosophers  is  but  ignorance, 
when  compared  with  the  knowledge  possessed  by 
the  least  of  the  Elect. 

Then  shalt  thou  view  all  the  display  of  My  ever- 
lasting kingdom,  its  unbounded  treasures,  its  ever- 
enduring  dignities. 

At  the  contemplation  of  a loveliness  so  varied, 
and  so  great,  thou  shalt  be  inflamed  with  an  ineffa- 
ble love  for  Me. 

4.  Then,  My  Child,  then,  wilt  thou  love  Me,  in  a 
perfect  manner,  without  any  division  of  thy  affec- 
tions, without  remissness,  without  end. 

Nov/,  thou  art  sometimes  in  trouble,  because  thou 
knowest  not  whether  thou  art  worthy  of  love  or  of 
hatred:  then,  to  thy  unutterable  joy,  thou  shalt 
know  with  certainty,  that  thou  lovest  Me,  and  wilt 
love  Me  forever;  and  that,  in  return,  thou  art  loved, 
and  shalt  be  loved  by  Me,  throughout  eternity. 

Then  shalt  thou  repose  on  My  Heart,  with  per- 
fect security;  and  thou  shalt  taste  how  delightful  it 
is,  to  love  Me,  and  to  melt  away  in  My  love. 

Thou  shalt  be  inebriated  with  an  exceeding  grea 
sweetness,  and  rapt  above  thyself;  thou  shalt  swir: 
in  an  ocean  of  love,  with  the  Angels  and  the  Saints 
amid  jubilant  hymns  of  love,  for  evermore. 


THE  FIRST  BOOK. 


IS° 

Thus  shalt  thou  spend  ages,  and  while  away  eter- 
nity, ever  wishing,  and  ever  longing,  to  love;  and,  at 
the  same  time,  ever  sated,  and  ever  blissful,  with  love. 

5,  Then,  at  last,  Child,  shalt  thou  possess  Me, 
and  enjoy  Me  forever:  which  is  the  completing  of 
beatitude. 

Thou  shalt  be  wholly  Mine,  and  I will  be  wholly 
thine:  thou  shalt  enjoy  Me,  in  a manner  ever  new, 
ever  most  delightful. 

In  Me  thou  shalt  possess  every  good,  and  have 
whatever  thou  canst  wish  or  desire. 

Let  thy  mind  conceive,  if  possible,  how  beautiful, 
how  wonderful,  how  charming,  all  things  are  there: 
how  rapturous  to  behold  the  glory  and  exquisite 
adornment  of  the  heavens,  to  be  present  among  the 
choirs  of  the  Angels,  to  exult  unceasingly  with  the 
Saints,  to  contemplate  and  love  the  most  Blessed 
Virgin,  the  glorious  Queen  of  the  heavenly  king- 
dom; and,  in  return,  to  attract  Her  sweet  looks,  and 
gain  Her  love. 

What  delightful  dwellings,  O My  Child  ! wThat 
pleasant  companionship!  what  charming  beatitude, 
and  all  to  endure  forever  and  ever! 

Behold,  My  Child,  behold  the  exceeding  great 
reward  of  those  that  serve  Me  with  their  whole 
heart.  Can  the  world  give  such  things?  or  even 
promise  them  ? 

Lift  up  thy  eyes,  therefore,  and  see  what  awaits 
thee,  if  thou  art  faithful  to  Me  even  to  the  end. 

Be  of  good  cheer,  My  Child;  and  as  much  as 
thou  art  able,  wTith  the  divine  grace  and  thy  own 
co-operation,  cleanse  thy  heart  and  preserve  it  pure. 
For  nothing  defiled,  be  it  ever  so  little,  shall  enter 
into  heaven. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


I5J- 


But  the  purer  thou  art  here,  the  more  glorious 
shalt  thou  be  there;  and  the  nearer  to  Me,  and  the 
dearer  to  My  Heart, 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  how 
blessed  are  they,  that  dwell  in  heaven  with  Thee ! 

O happy  mortals  they,  who  serve  Thee  with  a 
clean  heart!  what  ineffable  beatitude  shall  they  en- 
joy in  eternity!  yea,  who  is  more  happy  than  they, 
even  in  time! 

O bliss-creating  service  of  Jesus,  which  gains 
such  a reward!  thou  renderest  easy  and  pleasant 
all  things,  that  lead  to  so  great  a glory  and  blessed- 
ness. 

O most  sweet  Jesus,  bid  me  do,  bid  me  suffer,  for 
Thy  sake,  whatever  Thou  wilt:  willingly  and  gladly 
do  I embrace  everything,  that  I may  please  Thee 
in  time,  and  possess  Thee  in  eternity. 

By  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  do  I entreat  Thee, 
lead  me  safe,  through  whatever  way  Thou  mavst 
choose,  into  Thy  kingdom;  that,  with  the  Angels 
and  Saints,  I may  behold  Thee,  love  Thee,  enjoy 
Thee,  for  evermore.  Amen. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


i.  The  object  of  the  Second  Book  is,  to  teach 
us — after  we  have  become  disengaged  from  our  evil 
and  inordinate  affections,  how  we  should  exert  our- 
selves, that,  by  the  practice  of  virtue,  we  may  be 
enabled  to  make  our  election  sure.  In  order  to  do 
this  the  more  efficaciously,  and  the  more  sweetly, 
at  the  same  time,  we  should  place  before  our  eyes 
Jesus,  with  the  inward  dispositions  of  His  Heart; 
because,  by  following  Him  who  is  the  way,  the 
truth,  and  the  life,  we  shall  proceed,  with  safety, 
certainty,  and  pleasure,  from  virtue  to  virtue,  and 
secure  our  salvation. 

The  practice  of  the  virtues,  by  which  we  may 
follow  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  and  express  His  interior 
life  in  ourselves,  can,  in  eve:y  state  and  condition 
of  life,  be  performed  in  two  ways  The  first,  by 
practicing  those  virtues  which  are  of  precept,  and 
which  the  state  and  condition  -of  every  one  require. 
The  second,  by  exercising,  according  to  the  divine 
good  pleasure,  those  virtues  also,  which  are  of 
counsel,  whereby  our  salvation  is  better  secured, 
and  the  divine  glory  and  our  merits  are  the  more 
increased.  But  since  both  these  ways  contain 
limitless  degrees,  whereby  virtue  is  ever  practiced 
with  greater  perfection,  there  is  no  one,  how  perfect 

152 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


153 


soever  he  may  be,  who  cannot  here  occupy  himself 
profitably,  and  gather  more  abundant  fruit. 

As,  however,  Jesus  willed  that,  in  the  imitation 
of  His  virtues,  we  should,  above  all,  be  humble  and 
meek  of  heart,  we  must  diligently  attend  and  take 
care,  both  that,  whatever  virtues  we  learn  and  imitate 
in  Him,  we  place  them  upon  true  humility  as  their 
groundwork,  and  perfect  them  in  a meek  charity; 
and  again,  that,  in  the  very  manner  of  imitating  His 
virtues,  we  be  especially  meek  and  humble  of  heart. 

2.  Nowhere  can  we  learn  virtues  more  safely, 
and  more  easily,  than  in  the  Heart  of  Jesus.  For, 
as  that  Heart  is  the  pattern  of  true  virtue,  by 
merely  looking  upon  It  with  attention,  we  shall  see 
what  virtue  is,  and  what  qualities  it.  ought  to  pos- 
sess: neither  shall  we  run  the  risk  of  erring  in  a 
matter  which  is  to  us  of  so  much  importance,  both 
for  time  and  eternity.  Thence  shall  we  learn,  to 
our  unspeakable  consolation,  that  virtue  is  a right 
affection  of  the  heart  for  an  object,  which  is,  in 
some  manner,  good:  and  we  shall  perceive,  that 
this  good  object, — which  sometimes  we  call,  fig- 
uratively, virtue, — is  not  in  truth  virtue  itself,  but 
simply  the  object  of  virtue.  Thence  we  shall  like- 
wise learn,  that  virtue,  in  order  to  be  such  as  it 
ought  to  be  in  every  Christian,  must  not  be  natural, 
but  supernatural:  and  we  shall  clearly  distinguish 
the  difference  betwreen  the  two.  The  affections  of 
the  Heart  of  Jesus,  which  He  reduced  to  acts, 
whether  internal  or  external,  did  not  spring  from 
an  impulse  or  motion  of  His  human  nature,  but 
from  a supernal  or  divine  principle;  they  were  not 
performed  according  to  the  sentiments  of  His  human 
nature,  but  according  to  the  divine  good  pleasure; 


154  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

they  did  not  tend  to  some  temporal  delight  of  His 
human  nature,  but  throughout  to  God,  as  to  their 
last  end. 

Whence,  if,  from  the  impulse  or  emotion  of  mere 
nature,  we  strive  after  what  is  good;  if  we  act 
simply  according  to  the  feelings  of  nature,  whether 
of  inclination  or  aversion;  if  we  seek  merely  a 
natural  end,  we  have  only  natural  virtue,  whereby 
we  shall  acquire  no  Christian  perfection  in  this 
life, — no  fruit  of  merit  in  eternity.  But,  if  o£ 
the  Heart  of  Jesus,  we  learn  supernatural  virtue, 
and  the  practice  of  the  same ; replenished  with 
graces  and  merits,  we  shall  lead  an  interior  life,  like 
to  His  own. 

What  is  the  interior  life, — for  which  the  life  of 
the  Heart  of  Jesus  serves  us  as  a model, — except 
to  begin  all  our  voluntary  acts,  internal  as  well  as 
external,  by  the  grace  of  God,  or  a supernatural 
principle;  to  perform  them  according  to  God’s 
Will;  to  direct  them  to  God  and  His  interests,  as 
to  our  end;  to  occupy  ourselves  in  our  Heart  with 
God,  our  Saviour;  and  to  live  for  Him  by  love? 
Now,  all  this  he  does,  who  begins  all  his  voluntary 
acts  by  the  divine  good  pleasure ; who  performs  them 
according  to  the  divine  good  pleasure;  directs  them 
to  the  divine  good  pleasure,  as  his  end, — being 
most  constantly  occupied  internally  with  the  Lord, 
through  love.  Behold  the  truly  interior  life,  by 
which  genuine  and  solid  virtues  are  acquired; 
by  which  we  may  attain,  safely  and  sweetly,  to  true 
sanctity  and  divine  union.  This  life  is  fitted  for 
every  state  and  condition;  it  is  adapted,  not  only 
to  ecclesiastics  and  religious,  but  equally  to  all  laics 
and  persons  in  the  world.  Did  not  the  first  Chris- 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK.  1 55 

Jans  generally  lead  this  life?  Does  not  the  Gos- 
pel teach  this  life  to  all  ? 

Whoever  has  a good  will  may  lead  this  sanctify- 
ing life,  practice  supernatural  virtue  and  attain  to 
perfection.  For,  the  acquiring,  or  not  acquiring  of 
virtue,  does  not  depend  on  temperament,  on  a mild 
or  passionate  character,  as  many  seem  to  believe: 
but  it  depends  on  the  grace  of  God,  and  the  co- 
operation of  man’s  will.  For,  since  God  gives 
grace,  not  in  view  of  natural  qualities,  but  first 
gratuitously,  and  afterwards  also  in  consideration 
of  supernatural  merits  and  prayers;  and  since  the 
human  will,  whatever  be  the  natural  disposition 
of  a man,  is  truly  free  to  co-operate,  or  not  to  co- 
operate with  grace,  it  is  evident,  that  virtue  does 
not  depend  on  temperament  or  natural  disposition. 
Wherefore,  we  acquire  virtue  the  better,  and  the 
more  perfectly,  not  in  proportion  as  our  natural 
disposition  is  yielding,  but  in  proportion  as  our  co- 
operation is  more  efficacious:  we  reach  a more  pure 
and  more  solid  virtue,  not  by  reason  of  the  fewness 
of  natural  repugnances  we  feel,  but  by  means  of  the 
more  generous  acts  of  the  will,  which  we  perform, 
in  spite  of  natural  repugnances.  This  doctrine,  so 
full  of  consolation, — which  the  Saints  unanimously 
teach,  and  wdiich  they  learned  of  the  very  Heart 
of  Jesus, — deserves  our  whole  attention. 

In  the  practice  of  virtue,  we  must  guard  against 
delusions,  among  which  this  one  is  the  chief  and 
most  common:  That  we  are  satisfied  with  produc- 
ing the  object  of  a virtue,  whilst  we  do  not  practice 
the  virtue  itself;  or,  that  we  believe  that  we  practice 
a virtue,  when  we  bring  forward  the  object  of  vir- 
tue through  a natural  inclination  or  intention;  or 


156  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

even,  that  we  think,  we  can  acquire  true  and  solid 
virtue,  without  repeated  and  generous  acts,  whereby 
the  emotions  of  the  passions,  and  the  impulses  ol 
nature  are  overcome  or  denied.  They  that  neglect 
to  cleanse  their  heart  perfectly,  are  especially  wont 
;o  fall  into  this  dreadful  delusion.  Other  delusions, 
which  may  occasionally  occur  in  the  practice  of 
virtue,  arise  nearly  all  from  the  preceding.  Such 
are.  on  the  one  hand,  to  grow  despondent  in  mind, 
on  account  of  the  difficulties  or  oppositions  of  na- 
ture: to  look  upon  these  as  obstacles  to  virtue,  not 
as  means, — such  as  they  may  be  in  reality,  if  they 
are  used  with  a generous  heart, — to  acquire  true 
and  solid  virtue:  on  the  other  hand,  to  deem  the 
good  qualities  of  nature,  freedom  from  vices  or 
temptations,  a virtue;  or,  even,  overlooking  true 
and  solid  virtue,  to  aspire  to  divine  union.  Now, 
these,  and  other  delusions,  you  will  easily  avoid,  if, 
like  a true  Disciple  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  you  lead 
an  interior  life. 

3.  When,  therefore,  you  have  come  to  that  part 
of  the  spiritual  life,  which  tne  Heart  cf  Jesus 
teaches  in  this  Book,  you  should  direct  your  en- 
deavors to  this:  to  know  and  love  Jesus  as  per- 
fectly as  you  can,  to  learn  and  acquire,  ever  better 
and  better,  in  thinking,  in  speaking,  in  acting,  the 
dispositions  of  His  Heart.  To  attain  to  this,  besides 
the  two  methods  of  meditating, — which  are  given 
before  the  first  Book,  and  which  you  may  also  em- 
ploy here,  if  you  find  them  useful, — what  follows 
will  enable  you  to  understand  more  fully  this 
matter. 

4.  The  proper  method  of  using  the  second  Book 
Is  twofold:  the  one  of  meditating,  the  other  of  con- 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


157 


templating:  both  agree  entirely  with  what  the 
Saints  have  taught  us  concerning  mental  prayer. 

If  you  meditate,  let  the  memory  represent  to  you 
some  virtue  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  and  let  it  retain 
the  same,  after  the  meditation;  so  as  to  put  it  in 
practice. 

Let  the  understanding  consider  the  qualities  of 
the  virtue  proposed;  then,  let  it  compare  your  own 
heart  with  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  in  regard  to  the  vir- 
tue considered;  afterwards,  let  it  recall  your  past 
life,  whether  and  how  far  you  have  practiced  this 
virtue;  if  sufficiently,  return  thanks,  and  give 
honor  to  God,  your  Saviour;  but,  if  the  contrary, 
grieve  and  ask  pardon;  lastly,  let  it  look  forward 
into  the  future,  considering  when,  and  how,  you  can 
improve  this  virtue. 

Let  the  will  embrace  the  same  virtue,  excite  in- 
ternal acts  of  the  same;  yea,  conversing  with  Jesus 
Himself,  let  it  utter  the  sentiments  of  the  heart: 
for  what  it  is  sorry,  what  it  proposes;  what  it  fears, 
what  it  hopes;  what  it  dislikes,  what  it  loves;  nay, 
let  it  devoutly  communicate  its  every  desire,  and, 
finally,  ask  much. 

But,  if  you  contemplate,  see  in  the  mystery,  or 
in  the  particular  subject  which  you  propose  to  con- 
template, what  are  the  sentiments  of  the  Heart  of 
Jesus,  or  of  Jesus  in  His  Heart,  concerning  all  and 
each  of  the  things  that  occur  in  the  subject;  what  He 
esteems,  and  how  highly;  what  He  condemns,  and 
how  greatly;  what  He  shuns,  and  what  He  embraces. 

Then,  give  heed,  in  this  matter,  to  the  words  which 
issue  from  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  and  what  words 
are  not  even  thought  in  His  Heart,  much  less  uttered. 
Lastly,  observe,  in  the  same  manner,  what  kind 


158  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

of  acts  proceed  from  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  and  with 
what  virtues  they  are  adorned. 

And,  throughout  the  whole  contemplation,  ac- 
cording to  your  devotion,  or  your  wants,  or  the 
motions  of  grace,  indulge  and  persist  in  acts,  that 
is,  pious  affections  and  petitions. 

Learn,  in  this  manner,  by  contemplation,  to  feel, 
and  speak,  and  act,  like  Jesus  Himself. 

The  acts,  specially  recommended  in  this  part  of 
the  interior  life,  besides  acts  of  the  theological  vir- 
tues, are  frequent  acts  of  that  virtue  to  which  you 
are  applying  yourself,  of  generous  self-abnegation 
of  your  ill-ordered  nature,  of  a noble  love  of  Jesus. 
Repeat  these  constantly. 

But,  whether  you  meditate,  or  whether  you  con- 
template, you  ought  so  to  consider  the  mysteries  of 
the  life  of  Jesus,  as  if  you  were  present  at  them: 
which  is  expressly  taught  by  St.  Bonaventure:  “If 
you  desire,”  says  he,*  “to  derive  fruit  from  these 
things,  you  must,  with  all  the  affection  of  youv 
mind,  setting  aside  all  other  cares  and  anxieties, 
represent  yourself  as  present  at  wThat  is  related  to 
have  been  spoken  or  done  by  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ; 
in  such  a manner  as  if  you  heard  them  with  your 
ears,  saw  them  with  your  eyes.” 

5.  The  Saints,  who  were  skilled  in  the  interior 
ways  of  the  spiritual  life,  teach  us  that  the  de- 
mon, the  evil  spirit,  is  more  wont  to  tempt,  under 
the  appearance  of  good,  those  who,  leading  a life 
already  exempt  from  sins,  exercise  themselves  in 
acquiring  virtues.  Wherefore,  to  such  persons, 
they  recommend  the  following  rules,  to  enable 
them  to  discern  between  the  good  and  the  evil 
spirit,  and  between  the  suggestions  of  either. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


JS9 


I.  In  those  who  are  advancing  from  good  to  bet- 
ter, the  good  Spirit  moves  the  soul  peacefully, 
calmly,  gently: 

The  evil  spirit  moves  the  soul  roughly,  confus- 
edly, violently. 

But  on  those  who  proceed  from  bad  to  worse,  the 
said  spirits  act  in  a contrary  manner.  For  the 
good  Spirit  stings  them  inwardly,  disquiets  and 
arouses  them,  that  he  may  bring  them  to  conver- 
sion. 

And  the  wicked  spirit  endeavors  to  make  them 
quiet  in  sin,  caresses,  and  flatters  them,  that  he 
may  keep  and  push  them  onward  in  evil. 

II.  It  is  peculiar  to  God,  as  well  as  to  every 
good  Spirit,  in  His  motions,  to  give  to  them  that 
act  rightly,  or  use  sincere  efforts,  true  joy  and 
spiritual  consolation,  and  to  remove  the  sadness 
and  trouble,  which  the  evil  spirit  causes. 

And  it  is  the  characteristic  of  the  evil  spirit  to 
fight  against  such  joy  and  consolation,  by  adduc- 
ing specious  reasons,  subtleties,  and  various  falla- 
cies. 

III.  The  evil  spirit  observes  very  much,  whether 
a soul  possesses  a delicate  or  a loose  conscience:  If 
it  is  a delicate  one,  he  strives  to  render  it  still  more 
delicate,  even  to  scrupulousness  and  every  extreme, 
so  that  he  may  the  more  easily  trouble  and  over- 
come her:  thus,  if  he  sees  that  a soul  commits  no 
mortal  sin,  nor  venial,  nor  any  voluntary  defect, 
the  evil  spirit,  as  he  cannot  make  her  fall  into  some 
sin,  tries  to  cause  her  to  judge  and  think  that  a sin, 
which  is  not  sin: 

But  if  the  soul  is  of  lax  conscience,  the  evil  spirit 
strives  to  make  her  still  more  lax  and  gross;  so 


l6o  DIRECTORY  EOR  THE  SECOND  BOOR. 

that,  if  before  she  made  no  account  of  veniai 
sins,  he  endeavors  to  induce  her  now  to  make  light 
of  mortal  sins;  and,  if  before  she  cared  little  for 
grievous  sins,  he  uses  his  efforts  to  make  her  now 
care  much  less,  or  even  nothing  at  all,  for  them. 

IV.  A soul  that  desires  to  make  progress  in  the 
spiritual  life,  must  always  proceed  in  a manner  con- 
trary to  that  by  which  the  evil  spirit  proceeds. 
Wherefore,  if  he  tries  to  make  the  soul  more  lax, 
she  must  take  care  to  render  herself  more  delicate: 
in  like  manner,  if  he  endeavors  to  make  her  so  del- 
icate, as  to  lead  her  to  extremes,  or  to  scruoles,  she 
should  manage  to  place  herself  firmly  in  the  golden 
mean,  so  that  she  may  render  and  keep  herself  al- 
together quiet. 

V.  It  is  the  characteristic  of  the  evil  spirit, 
who  transforms  himself  sometimes  into  an  angel  of 
light,  to  begin  by  thrusting  in  thoughts  conform- 
able to  the  pious  soul,  and  to  finish,  by  suggesting 
his  own  wicked  ones. 

VI.  The  soul  should  rightly  attend  to  the 
course  of  the  thoughts  suggested:  for  if  the  be- 
ginning, the  middle,  and  the  end  are  good,  and 
tend  to  a good  object,  it  is  a sign  that  the  thoughts 
suggested  come  from  the  good  Spiiit:  but  if  in  the 
succession  of  thoughts,  which  the  spirit  suggests, 
he  ends  with  something  bad, — or  which  turns  away 
from  a certain  good, — or  even  with  a less  good 
than  that  which  the  soul  had  before  resolved  to  do; 
or,  if  he  renders  the  soul  restless,  or  disturbs  her, 
by  taking  away  the  tranquillity  and  peace  vdiich 
she  enjoyed  before,  it  is  an  evident  sign,  that  those 
thoughts  come  from  the  evil  spirit. 

VII.  When  the  enemv  has  been  discovered,  and 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  SECOND  BOOK.  l6l 

is  known  by  the  evil,  to  which  he  leads,  it  is  then 
useful,  that  the  soul  consider  the  course  of  thoughts 
suggested  to  her,  under  the  appearance  of  good; 
and  that  she  review  from  the  beginning,  how  the 
enemy  tried  to  overthrow,  and  take  away  by  de- 
grees, her  interior  peace  and  tranquillity,  until  he 
brought  in  his  own  wicked  intention.  Taught  by 
this  experience,  the  soul  will  for  the  future  guard 
more  easily  against  the  deceits  of  the  evil  spirit. 

Sr.  Ignat.,  St.  Bernard,  St.  Gertrude 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  FOR  THE  IMITA - 
TION  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART 
OF  JESUS  IN  HIS  ACTIVE  LIFE. 


CHAPTER  I. 

HOW  MUCH  WE  SHOULD  ESTEEM  AND  CHERISH  SANC- 
TIFYING GRACE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  do  not  disre- 
gard grace,  but  carefully  preserve  so  sacred  a de- 
posit, which  has  been  intrusted  to  thee. 

For  this  is  thy  treasure,  this  thy  glory,  this  thy 
happiness,  this  thy  every  good. 

This  informs  thee,  the  image  of  God,  and  ren- 
ders thee  alike  to  Him. 

Know,  then,  thy  dignity,  O man,  who,  by  sancti- 
fying grace,  art  raised  even  to  the  likeness  of  God, 
and  becomest  more  exalted  than  the  whole  world, 
so  that  naught  of  earth  can  be  compared  to  thee. 

What  is  the  splendor  of  the  stars?  what  the 
beauty  of  all  creatures,  when  placed  in  comparison 
with  the  excellence  of  a soul  adorned  with  divine 
grace,  and  thus  assimilated  to  God  Himself? 

Lift  up  thyself,  therefore,  and,  mindful  of  thy 
dignity,  do  not  defile  nor  debase  thyself. 

162 


CHAPTER  I. 


163 

2.  God  adopts  thee,  resplendent  with  this  grace 
not  simply  as  His  child,  but  as  the  child  of  His 
love  and  predilection. 

Thus,  what  I possess  by  nature,  thou  receivest  by 
adoption;  so  that  thou  art  not  only  called,  but  art 
in  very  truth,  a child  of  God. 

Understand,  if  thou  art  able,  what  it  is,  to  be  a 
child  of  God:  what  it  is,  to  be  loved  and  cherished 
by  such  a Father. 

In  the  world,  children  esteem  themselves  happy, 
and  glory  in  having  parents  who  are  wise,  good, 
influential — or  wealthy,  great,  illustrious. 

But  what  are  the  distinctions  of  all  the  parents 
of  this  earth,  when  compared  with  the  Attributes 
of  God? 

With  how  much  more  reason,  therefore,  shouldst 
thou  glory  and  rejoice  in  having  for  thy  Father, 
God  Himself,  the  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth! 

Ponder,  then,  with  a true  judgment  the  excel- 
lence of  this  divine  adoption.  For,  when  formerly 
thou  wast  a castaway,  reduced  in  the  lowest  depth 
of  degradation,  thou  becamest,  by  sanctifying  grace, 
from  bond,  free;  from  one  disowned,  the  acknowl- 
edged child  of  God;  that,  thus  ennobled,  thou 
mayst  rejoice  in  the  affluence  of  the  good  things  of 
the  Lord. 

Blessed  is  he  who  knows  the  price  of  sanctifying 
grace,  whereby  he  was  raised  to  be  a child  of  God; 
and  who  so  esteems  this,  the  highest  nobility,  that, 
on  no  account,  he  shows  himself  degenerate,  but 
ever  continues  a child  worthy  of  such  a Father! 

3.  If,  by  grace,  thou  art  a child,  by  the  same 
thou  art  also  made  an  heir, — even  the  heir  of  God, 
and  co-heir  with  Me. 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


164 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  the  everlasting  kingdom, 
which  is  Mine  by  right  of  nature,  becomes  thine  in 
virtue  of  sanctifying  grace. 

When  thou  lookest  up  to  heaven,  and  viewest,  in 
spirit,  the  glory,  the  beatitude,  and  all  the  good 
things  of  eternity,  say  to  thyself:  Behold  my  pos- 
sessions, behold  my  inheritance,  if  I preserve  the 
title  of  grace. 

My  merits  obtained,  that  this  grace  should  confer 
upon  thee  a settled  right  to  the  possessions  of 
heaven;  of  which  none,  except  thyself,  can  deprive 
thee. 

God’s  promise  remains  firm;  He  is  faithful  to 
His  word:  but,  if  thou  losest  sanctifying  grace, 
thou  throwest  aside  thy  right,  and  becomest  disin- 
herited. 

4.  Grace,  My  Child, — which  constitutes  thee  an 
heir  of  the  heavenly  kingdom, — makes  thee  also  a 
companion  of  the  Angels,  a brother  of  the  Saints. 

If  thou  art  glad  when  thou  enjoyest  the  inter- 
course of  distinguished  companions,  mortal  men 
though  they  be,  and  subject  to  change;  if  thou  art 
delighted  at  having  brothers  according  to  the  flesh, 
although  their  number  divides  and  lessens  thy 
earthly  inheritance:  how  great  must  be  thy  joy 
that,  by  grace,  thou  hast  the  blessed  Angels  for 
companions,  the  chosen  Saints  of  God  for  brothers, — 
whose  countless  number  neither  divides  nor  lessens 
thy  celestial  inheritance,  but,  on  the  contrary,  in- 
creases and  multiplies  the  same! 

And  what  brothers,  too,  My  Child!  how  innu- 
merable, how  illustrious,  how  mighty,  how  good! 

ihey  are  thy  elder  brothers:  celebrated  for  their 
triumphs,  crowned  with  the  glory  of  beatitude,  se- 


CHAPTER  I. 


16S 


cure  of  themselves,  solicitous  for  thee;  they  love 
thee  in  truth,  encourage  thee  by  their  example, 
help  thee  by  their  prayers,  invite  thee  by  their  re- 
wards. 

Blissful  grace,  which  makes  thee  the  brother  of 
such  heroes!  Oh,  My  Child,  would  that  thou  didst 
fully  understand  this ! 

5.  Moreover,  by  an  effect  of  sanctifying  grace,  thou 
mayst,  even  in  this  life,  enjoy  true  happiness.  Thb 
grace  is  the  foundation  of  interior  peace:  without  it, 
there  is  no  real  peace:  with  it,  an  undisturbed  calm 
pervades  the  soul. 

Who,  that  resists  sanctifying  grace,  has  ever 
enjoyed  peace?  And  what  happiness  can  there 
exist,  where  there  is  no  peace  ? 

If  thou  rejoicest  in  the  peace  of  grace,  thou 
mayst  justly  and  safely  be  glad  amid  prosperity, 
and  thou  canst  easily  and  usefully  find  solace  in 
adversity. 

Preserve  thyself  in  grace,  and  thou  shalt  always 
be  enabled  to  possess  peace  and  happiness.  Wi  * 
ness  all  the  Saints:  yea,  also  they  who,  when  once 
converted,  kept  carefully  within  themselves  the 
grace  of  God.  When  they  had  this,  and  compared 
their  present  feelings  with  those  of  their  former 
life,  taught  by  experience,  they  could  say  to  Me: 
Better  is  one  day  in  Thy  courts,  O Lord,  than  thou- 
sands in  the  dwellings  of  sinners. 

6.  Nay  more,  My  Child,  if  thou  livest  in  sancti- 
fying grace,  My  kingdom  is  within  thee;  so  that 
repose  and  reign  in  thy  heart  as  on  My  throne. 

Now,  My  kingdom  consists  in  the  tranquillit 
and  joy  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  who  is  a Spirit  Oi 
charity  and  sanctification. 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


1 66 

In  this  kingdom  I hold  sway,  not  as  a Lord 
ruling  My  subjects,  but  as  a Father  training  My 
Child,  whom  I design  to  reign  with  Me. 

So  long,  therefore,  as  thou  continuest  under  this 
rule  of  grace,  I guide  thee  specially  by  My  Wisdom, 
I protect  thee  by  My  power,  I attend  and  en- 
compass thee  by  My  love. 

Neither  hast  thou  aught  to  fear,  My  Child,  for 
this  kingdom  so  governed,  so  protected,  so  cher- 
ished; unless,  indeed,  thyself  Decomest  its  betrayer. 

If  thou  art  faithful,  it  shall,  doubtless,  stand  firm 
and  endure  for  evermore:  nor  can  all  its  enemies 
combined  overthrow,  or  even  weaken  the  same. 

How  sweet,  how  consoling  is  this  thought,  O My 
Child!  how  well  suited  to  make  thee  esteem  sane 
tifying  grace  above  everything! 

7.  See  now,  My  Child,  how  many,  and  what 
great  possessions  thou  hast  in  this  one  good  alone! 

Does  not  this  one  good  surpass,  in  excellence,  all 
the  riches  of  this  world  ? 

Pray,  Child,  that  thou  mayst  ever  understand 
better,"  and  more  perfectly  the  value  of  grace,  and 
prize  it  in  reality  as  highly  as  thou  shouldst  do. 

If  thou  dost  understand  and  appreciate  it  rightly, 
thou  wilt  deem  it  little,  or  certainly  not  too  much, 
to  sacrifice  for  its  preservation  not  only  fortune, 
fame,  and  all  that  is  dear  and  pleasing,  but  even 
health,  and,  if  it  were  necessary,  life  itself. 

Did  not  My  holy  Martyrs,  and  all  My  sainted 
heroes, — among  whom  thou  beholdest  so  many 
children  and  tender  Virgins, — prize  it  thus?  Did 
not  thousands  among  them,  when  it  was  left  to  their 
choice,  prefer  to  sacrifice,  amid  torments,  all  the 
blessings  of  life,  yea,  life  itself,  rather  than  lose  the 


CHAPTER  I.  167 

same,  for  any  possession,  however  great,  that  was 
offered  ? 

Thou,  therefore,  the  child  of  such  heroes,  use 
thy  every  effort,  constant  watchfulness,  and  thy 
greatest  care,  to  preserve  grace,  the  most  precious 
of  all  gifts;  the  more  so,  as  the  most  powerful  ex- 
ertions of  thy  enemies  are  direc-ed  to  despoil  thee, 
and  thus  to  accomplish  thy  destruction. 

For  the  rest,  dearly  beloved,  be  thou  strength- 
ened in  grace:  increase  in  the  same,  and,  by  acts 
of  true  virtue,  advance  thou,  even  unto  perfection. 

Didst  thou  understand  all  these  things,  My 
Child? 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yea,  Lord.  Would 
that  I had  understood  all  this  before!  Would  I 
not  then,  after  I had  lost  Thy  grace,  have  wept  and 
moaned  more  dolefully  than  Esau,  when  he  had 
forfeited  his  birthright?  For  greater,  beyond  com- 
parison, was  my  loss,  and  sustained  too,  for  a far 
baser  object. 

Oh!  had  I understood  all  this,  would  I,  for 
aught  here  below,  have  cast  away  so  great  a treas- 
ure? 

Lord  Jesus,  would  that  I had  never  lost  this 
greatest  of  all  possessions!  One  thing,  however, 
brings  me  solace,  it  is  not  yet  too  late;  I may  still 
enjoy  the  privileges  of  Thy  grace,  and  thereby 
sanctify  myself. 

Thanks  to  thee,  most  sweet  Jesus,  for  that  Thou 
hast  showed  so  great  a mercy  to  me,  so  unworthy. 
The  ineffable  kindness  of  Thy  Heart,  I will  not 
forget  forever. 

O Jesus!  hereafter,  grant  me  sooner  to  die  than 
to  lose  Thy  grace.  By  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  I 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


1 68 

beg  and  entreat  Thee,  hearken  graciously  to  mj 
petition. 

Let  others  seek  after  silver  and  gold,  honor  and 
distinction,  the  joys  of  this  world  and  its  consola- 
tions: taught  by  Thee,  O Lord,  this  alone  do  I de- 
sire above  all  else,  to  preserve  Thy  grace,  and  to 
increase  therein  all  the  days  of  my  life. 


CHAPTER  II. 

WHY  THE  SON  OF  GOD  WISHED  TO  BECOME  IN- 
CARNATE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  God  alone  i* 
good.  He  is  the  supreme  Goodness,  supreme  Wis- 
dom, supreme  Power,  supreme  Perfection. 

What,  then,  can  be  better,  or  more  perfect,  than 
to  follow  and  imitate  God  ? 

But,  as  God  falls  not  under  the  senses,  and  men 
are  inclined  to  sensible  things,  it  was  thought  be- 
fitting that  I,  a divine  Person,  should  become  man; 
that  thus  I might  unvaii  to  them  an  external  form 
to  captivate  their  senses,  and  induce  them,  in  a 
more  easy  and  pleasing  manner,  to  imitate  God. 

The  first  men  aspired  after  lofty  things;  they  de- 
sired and  endeavored  to  be  assimilated  to  God,  that, 
like  gods,  they  might  know  good  and  evil,  and  they 
fell:  they  lost  the  good  which  they  knew,  and  suf- 
fered the  evil  which  they  knew  not. 

But  I wished  to  present  Myself  before  men  in 
such  a form,  that,  without  presumption,  without 
danger,  they  might  safely  desire  so  to  render  them- 


CHAPTER  II.  169 

selves  like  unto  God,  as  to  be  freed  from  evil,  and 
to  acquire  what  is  good. 

2.  First  of  all,  men  were  to  be  redeemed;  and 
when  their  debts  had  been  canceled,  they  were  to 
be  made  free. 

Heavy  were  those  debts  which  weighed  upon 
them.  So  greatly  had  they  offended  the  divine  Maj- 
esty, that  no  mere  creature,  but  God  alone,  having 
become  man,  could  fully  satisfy  the  divine  justice, 
and  truly  repair  the  honor  of  the  divine  Majesty. 

Miserable  slaves  of  hell,  they  lay  cast  down,  and 
groaning,  without  having  in  themselves  any  means 
of  bettering  their  condition.  I pitied  the  wretched 
multitude;  and  came  among  them,  with  a Heart 
overflowing  with  mercy,  to  redeem  them,  and  lead 
them  to  a sweet  and  holy  freedom. 

3.  Heaven  had  been  closed  by  sin,  and,  among 
created  beings,  whether  in  heaven  or  upon  earth, 
there  was  none  able  to  open  it  again;  had  not  I 
come  down  and  unlocked  it,  no  mortal  could  ever 
have  entered  heaven. 

Before  My  coming,  God  was  indeed  known  in 
Judea,  where  some  few  served  Him  worthily;  but 
only  through  the  grace  given  to  men  in  view  of  My 
future  coming.  Among  the  Nations,  how  very 
small  was  the  number  of  those,  who,  co-operating 
with  this  grace,  feared  God,  practiced  justice,  and 
were  pleasing  to  Him! 

In  how  great  a darkness  were  the  greater  part  of 
them  heedlessly  groping!  in  how  deep,  and  how 
measureless  an  abyss  of  wickedness  were  they  buried! 

Nay  more,  even  now, — after  the  work  of  Re- 
demption has  been  fulfilled, — what  kind  of  life  do 
many  men  lead,  in  spite  of  the  countless  means  of 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


170 

salvation!  Through  their  own  fault,  ignorant  or 
forgetful  cf  Me,  they  roam  in  blindness,  and  wick- 
edly rush  to  destruction. 

What,  then,  should  have  become  of  the  human 
race,  unless  I,  the  Word,  had  been  made  flesh? 
None  could  have  attained  to  God,  to  supernatural 
beatitude. 

But,  by  assuming  flesh,  I united  in  Myself  the 
utmost  degree  of  divine  greatness  to  the  utmost  of 
human  lowliness,  in  such  a manner,  that,  whoso- 
ever was  willing,  could,  through  Me,  reach  God  and 
supernatural  beatitude. 

4.  I came  to  glorify  God,  My  Father;  to  make 
known  to  men  His  name  and  His  love. 

Of  old  the  name  of  God,  was  the  holy  and  dread 
Name  of  the  Lord:  now,  the  Name  of  God,  is  the 
holy  and  sweet  Name  of  a Father. 

The  Old  Law,  was  a Law  of  fear:  the  New,  is  a 
Law  of  love.  God  so  loved  men,  that  He  gave  Flis 
only-begotten  Son. 

And  I,  through  love  for  My  Father  and  for  men, 
was  incarnated  by  the  Holy  Ghost,  the  Spirit  of 
love. 

The  whole  work  of  the  Incarnation,  is,  therefore, 
a work  of  love,  but  of  a gratuitous  love,  of  an  infi- 
nite love. 

5.  I came  from  heaven,  and  I return  to  heaven, 
pointing  out  to  all  the  way  that  leads  thither,  that 
where  I am,  they  also  may  be  who  follow  Me  in 
this  way. 

I am  the  truth:  I appeared  shining  in  the  dark- 
ness of  the  world,  to  enlighten  every  man  that 
comes  into  this  world,  that  every  one  might  surelv 
and  safely  guide  his  steps  on  the  journev. 


CHAPTER  II. 


171 


I am  the  life:  for  this  I came  into  the  world, 
that  they  who  were  dead  might  have  life,  and  have 
it  more  abundantly;  namely,  the  life  of  grace  on 
their  way,  and  the  life  of  glory  in  their  heavenly 
country. 

Yet,  behold!  even  after  man  was  born  again  to 
the  life  of  grace,  freed  from  the  slavery  of  death; 
and  after  he  had  been  taught  by  Me  the  way  to  his 
true  country,  weak  and  unstrengthened  as  he  was, 
he  could  not  have  been  able  to  follow  me. 

Great  were  his  infirmities,  My  Child,  great  his 
faintness:  but  greater  was  the  all-powerful  Phy- 
sician, greater  the  divine  remedy,  which  heals  every 
infirmity,  every  faintness. 

This  remedy  is  manifold  grace,  the  price  of  My 
sufferings,  the  gift  of  My  Heart;  which  induces 
every  man  to  long  for  health;  strengthens  him 
when  healed,  and  helps  him  to  follow  Me. 

When  I came  upon  earth,  I might  have  run 
My  career  more  swiftly  than  a giant.  But  the  mul- 
titude of  those  that  were  suffering  so  moved  My 
Heart,  that,  loitering  in  their  midst,  I seemed,  in 
some  manner,  to  grow  weak  with  them;  and,  going 
before  them,  I so  smoothed  the  roughness  of  the 
way,  so  helped  and  cheered  up  every  one,  that, 
were  they  but  willing,  they  could  easily  and  joy- 
ously follow  My  footprints  towards  the  kingdom 
of  heaven. 

6.  See  now,  My  Child,  how  I have  loved  thee. 
These  things  I did  for  all  in  general,  and  for  every 
one  in  particular  as  well:  therefore,  also  for  thee  as 
if  thou  wert  alone  in  the  world,  wretched  and  for- 
saken: and,  as  if  I had  come  down  from  heaven, 
to  seek  thee,  to  redeem  thee,  to  save  thee  alone. 


172 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Wherefore,  since  I came  down  in  this  manner 
that  I might  be  thy  guide  to  My  everlasting  king- 
dom, follow  thou  Me. 

In  whatsoever  condition,  in  whatsoever  state  thou 
mayst  be,  under  all  circumstances,  propose  to  thy- 
self My  life,  as  the  sure  and  safe  way  to  heaven. 

Neither  shouldst  thou  imagine  that  My  outer  life 
only  is  such,  because  My  inner  life  is  the  principal. 

My  interior  is  My  Heart:  therein  is  found  all 
glory:  therein  resides  the  principle  of  all  virtues. 

My  Child,  be  not  like  the  Jews,  who  gazed  upon 
My  outward  appearance  only,  and  considered  not 
the  feelings  and  dispositions  of  My  Heart. 

Do  thou  enter  into  the  interior  of  My  Heart: 
carefully  examine  the  same,  study  It,  be  wholly 
busied  therewith. 

7.  If . thou  feelest  grateful  towards  Me,  if  thou 
lovest  Me  in  return,  thou  wilt  diligently  search 
~fter  whatever  may  be  pleasing  to  My  Heart,  and 
Uiou  wilt  do  it  faithfully. 

But  thou  must  seek  this  in  prayer,  ask  it  by  love, 
— ‘nbrace  it  by  love,  perform  it  with  love. 

My  Child,  prayer  is  the  key  of  heaven:  nay 
more,  prayer  is  the  key  of  My  Heart.  With  this 
key  open  thou  and  enjoy  all  the  treasures  of  My 
Heart. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple — Everlasting  thanks 
to  Thee,  Lord  God,  Creator  and  Redeemer  of  man- 
kind, for  Thy  gratuitous  and  exceedingly  great 
charity,  whereby  Thou  didst  create  us  men,  in  so 
wonderful  a manner,  and  didst  restore  us  still  more 
wonderfully. 

O Christ  Jesus!  Who,  unutterably  existing  from 
eternity,  as  the  Son  of  God,  through  an  excess  of 


CHAPTER  III. 


1 73 


Thy  love  for  us,  wast  willing  to  become  the  Son 
of  man ; who  will  not  love  Thee  in  return  ? Who 
will  not  cling  inseparably  to  Thee?  Who  will  not 
live  solely  for  Thee,  to  whom  he  owes  his  all  ? 

0 delightful  consolation!  O wonderful  sweet- 
ness! to  behold  the  Son  of  God,  the  Son  of  a 
Virgin ! 

1 adore  thee,  O Jesus,  Son  of  the  living  God, 
Thee  made  flesh  of  Mary!  I hope  in  Thee,  O infi- 
nite goodness!  I love  Thee  with  my  whole  heart, 
O most  loving  and  most  lovable  love!  Thou  art 
my  way:  Thou,  my  truth:  Thou,  my  life. 


CHAPTER  III. 

THAT  OUR  HEART,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE 

MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  INCARNATE, 

MUST  BE  WHOLLY  DEVOTED  TO  GOD. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  the  first  act  of 
My  Heart,  after  the  Incarnation,  was  an  act  of  love, 
whereby  I devoted  Myself  completely  to  My  heav- 
enly Father. 

There  was  in  Me  nothing  which  I did  not  con- 
secrate with  all  My  mind  to  My  Father:  nor  was 
there  aught  in  the  Will  of  My  Father,  which  I did 
not  embrace  with  My  whole  Heart. 

Even  then  did  I practically  say,  in  My  inmost 
Heart:  Behold!  My  Father,  I come  as  the  victim 
of  Thy  Will:  at  the  heal  of  the  book  of  life  it  1* 
written  of  Me,  that  I would  do  Thy  Will:  behold 


174 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


I have  willed  it,  and  the  law  of  Thy  good  pleasure 
is  in  the  midst  of  My  Heart. 

At  the  first  moment  of  My  life,  My  Father  placed 
before  Me  all  the  toils  and  hardships,  all  the  hu- 
miliations and  sorrows,  all  I was  to  do  and  to  suffer, 
even  to  the  last  breath  of  My  life. 

With  a willing  and  perfectly  devoted  Heart,  I 
received  all  and  each  of  them,  according  to  My 
Father’s  good  pleasure: 

And  this  inward  disposition  of  My  Heart,  I cher- 
ished every  moment  of  My  life;  by  this  was  I ever 
pressed  onward,  so  that  I always  did  whatsoever 
was  pleasing  to  My  Father. 

2.  Behold,  My  Child,  the  model  of  a true  devo- 
tion, that,  taught  by  it,  at  the  very  beginning  a. 
thy  career,  in  the  way  cf  virtue,  thou  mayst,  in  like 
manner,  devote  thyself  with  thy  whole  heart. 

Nothing,  perhaps,  is  of  so  much  importance,  in 
the  spiritual  life,  as  a true  and  entire  devotion  of 
heart.  For,  a heart  that  is  not  altogether  devoted 
to  Me  proves  that  it  lacks  perfect  purity. 

If  thou  dealest  with  Me  in  a sparing  manner,  I 
will  also  deal  with  thee  sparingly:  but,  if  thou  art 
generous  toward  Me,  I will,  in  return,  be  generous 
toward  thee,  and  I will  ever  excel  thee  in  gener- 
osity. 

If,  with  a liberal  heart,  thou  devote  thyself,  and 
all  thou  hast,  to  Me,  so  as  to  embrace  effectually 
My  good  pleasure  in  all  things;  I Myself  will  lead 
thee,  safely  and  happily,  through  whatsoever  may 
befall  thee;  I will  even,  in  some  manner,  be  obliged 
to  save  thee. 

3.  This  perfect  se!f-devotedness  has  ever  been  the 
beginning  of  holiness  in  all  My  Elect. 


CHAPTER  III. 


175 


Those  noble  and  generous  souls  deemed  the 
greatest  sacrifices  of  fife  as  nothing;  so  that  they 
consecrated  and  wholly  devoted  to  Me  whatsoever 
they  possessed,  whatsoever  they  were. 

Therefore,  too,  did  I show  to  them  such  liberality 
and  bountifulness,  that  often,  even  during  this  mor- 
tal life, — on  account  of  the  exceeding  sweetness  of 
consolation, — they  burst  into  tears,  and  wrhilst  on 
earth,  enjoyed  a foretaste  of  that  bliss,  wdierewith 
they  were  hereafter  to  be  inebriated  in  heaven. 

Yet  nowT  very  many  of  those  that  make  profes- 
sion of  a great  love  of  piety,  are  willing  to  be  de- 
voted, but  only  in  things,  and  under  circumstances, 
which  are  pleasing  to  them. 

These  are  assuredly  rather  devoted  to  themselves 
than  to  Me.  Wherefore,  they  continue  to  be  slaves 
of  self-love,  and  remain  miserable  and  devoid  of 
inward  happiness ; neither  do  they  become  dis- 
posed to  the  divine  union. 

Thou,  My  Child,  if  thou  wilt  be  truly  free  and 
happy,  withdraw  thy  heart  from  every  object  ex- 
cept Myself;  and  give  all  thy  affections  to  Me 
alone. 

If  thou  canst  keep  thy  heart  perfectly  devoted  to 
Me,  thou  shalt  be  able  to  continue  calm  and  un- 
disturbed under  all  circumstances.  For,  every  agi- 
tation of  mind  arises,  not  from  passing  events,  but 
from  a heart  ill-inclined  toward  God’s  good 
pleasure. 

And  if  thou  desirest  to  attain  to  an  intimate 
union  with  Me,  thou  must  be  free  from  all  creatures, 
and  wholly  devoted  to  Me,  in  all  things. 

4.  My  Child,  let  not  thy  devotion  be  like  that 
of  many  others,  which  is  wholly  exterior,  satisfied 


176 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


with  outward  things  alone,  and,  therefore,  merely 
a semblance  of  devotion,  not  devotion  itself. 

Let  thy  devotion  be  truly  interior,  which  has  its 
principle  in  a heart  so  disposed,  that,  with  the  di- 
vine grace,  thou  art  ready  to  resign  thyself,  uncon* 
ditionally,  to  all  My  wishes,  and  to  sacrifice  all  thou 
hast  to  serve  Me. 

Thy  devotion,  however,  must  pass  ever  to  out- 
ward things,  since  thou  art  a man,  and  not  an  An- 
gel. And,  as  thou  possessest  a body  and  a soul, 
both  My  gifts,  thou  must  with  both  honor  Me  and 
sanctify  thyself. 

But  let  the  things,  which  are  outwardly  seen  in 
thee,  overflow,  as  it  were,  from  the  abundance  of 
the  heart:  thus  shall  thy  devotion  be  solid,  and 
thou  shalt  be  a true  follower  of  My  Heart. 

5.  This  devotion,  My  Child,  is  the  effect  of  su- 
pernatural grace,  which,  enlightening  the  intellect, 
and  moving  the  will,  makes  a person  ready  to  com- 
ply, willingly,  with  everything  that  belongs  to  the 
service  of  God. 

To  this  devotion  thou  shalt  never  attain  by  any 
natural  means,  because  it  is  itself  supernatural,  and 
is  practiced  by  supernatural  assistance. 

Unless,  therefore,  thou  art  aided  by  divine  grace, 
thou  shalt  labor  in  vain;  even  shouldst  thou  de- 
clare thyself  devoted  to  Me,  and  appear  so  in  thy 
own  estimation. 

Pray,  then,  that  thou  mayst  receive  plentiful 
grace,  and  obtain  the  spirit  of  devotion.  Thou 
shalt  obtain  it,  if  thou  prayest  well.  All  things 
are  promised  to  prayer. 

With  the  aid  of  grace,  and  the  co-operation  of 
thy  own  endeavors,  true  devotion, — which  to  many, 


CHAPTER  HI. 


177 


guided  by  self-love,  is  known  by  name  only  or  ap= 
pears  a buiden, — shall  be  easy  and  sweet  to  thee. 

Whether  thou  hast  sensible  consolations  or  not, 
thou  wilt  continue,  in  peace  and  with  fruit,  to  trans- 
act thy  affairs,  to  fulfill  thy  duties,  and  to  be  faiths 
ful  to  thv  spiritual  practices. 

Without  anxiety  and  solicitude,  thou  wilt  repose 
in  the  arms  of  My  Providence,  as  an  infant  on  the 
bosom  of  its  mother:  and  thou  shalt  be  calm  and 
contented  in  the  various  ways,  through  which  I 
may  lead  thee  to  life  everlasting. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Lord  Jesus,  who 
for  my  salvation,  didst  consume  Thyself,  and,  as  an 
evidence  of  Thy  love,  didst  leave  me  Thy  Heart, 
delivered  up  for  love  of  me:  grant  me,  I beseech 
Thee,  the  grace  of  a perfect  devotion,  that  every- 
thing, except  Thyself,  being  withdrawn  from  my  heart, 
through  love  of  Thee,  I may  become  wholly  Thine. 

Relying  upon  the  aid  of  Thy  grace,  which  I 
humbly  implore,  I offer  myself,  with  all  my  heart, 
to  Thee,  that  I may  be  thoroughly  devoted  to  Thee, 
to  Thy  sendee,  and  Thy  interests. 

O sweetest  Jesus!  receive  me,  all  I am,  and  all 
I possess,  as  given  and  consecrated  to  Thee:  grant 
me  the  spirit  of  holy  devotion,  that  it  may  fill  my 
heart  with  its  unction;  make  piety  tasteful  to  me, 
foster  my  love  for  Thee,  render  prayer  sweet  to  me, 
and  dispose  me  rightly  for  action. 

Enlivened  bv  it,  I will  continue  ever  joyous  and 
constant  in  Thy  sendee;  I will  gently  draw  my 
neighbor  to  Thee,  and  gladden  the  Angels  and 
Saints  themselves;  yea,  what  is  more  excellent  than 
all,  I will  rejoice  Thy  Heart,  and  fill  It  with  de~ 
lights. 


1 78 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

THAT  WE  MUST  BE  TAUGHT  BY  THE  SACRED  HEART 

OF  JESUS,  NEWLY-BORN,  AND  BE  IMBUED  WITH 

ITS  SPIRIT. 

1.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Come  ye  and  see, 
all  ye  creatures!  wonder  and  be  astonished:  Be- 
hold! God  bowed  the  heavens,  and  came  down,  and 
lo!  He  dwells  with  us! 

O infant  God!  O prodigy  of  love!  O delight 
of  the  Angels,  who  came  from  heaven,  to  gaze  upon 
Thee  reclining  in  this  manger! 

O Jesus,  Son  of  God,  born  of  a Virgin!  how 
lovely!  how  sweet  to  me  art  Thou,  thus  become  an 
Infant! 

Wonderful  indeed,  in  the  Majesty  of  Thy  Di- 
vinity: more  wonderful,  in  the  loveliness  of  Thy 
littleness. 

Supremely  worthy  of  love,  in  the  boundlessness 
of  Thy  divine  perfections:  ravishing  all  hearts  by 
the  excess  of  Thy  childhood’s  sweetness. 

Who,  O infinite  goodness!  can  here  be  satiated 
with  gazing  upon  Thee,  with  loving  Thee,  with  in- 
ebriating himself  with  the  delightfulness  of  Thy 
Heart’s  love! 

How  sweet  art  Thou!  O my  Jesus!  how  sweet 
art  Thou,  besides  what  lies  hidden  within!  what 
then  must  be  Thy  inner  Spirit?  A most  exquisite 
one,  assuredly,  and  sweet  above  honey. 

2.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Yea,  My  Child,  it  is  the 
Spirit  of  My  Heart,  that  produces,  that  quickens 
these  wonderful,  these  most  delightful  things. 


CHAPTER  IV. 


179 


This  Spirit  of  Mine, — that,  by  love,  drew  Me  from 
the  bosom  of  the  Father  into  the  bosom  of  the 
Virgin;  and  that,  with  so  much  sweetness,  brought 
Me,  the  Only-begotten  of  the  Father,  upon  earth, — 
this  Spirit  ever  pervades,  directs,  and  leads  My 
Heart,  that  whithersoever  the  impulse  of  the  Spirit 
is,  thither  It  may  go. 

The  fullness  of  this  Spirit  dwells  in  My  Heart: 
for,  whom  God  has  sent,  to  Him  He  does  not  give 
the  Spirit  by  measure. 

Upon  My  Heart  that  Spirit  reposes,  the  Spirit 
of  wisdom  and  understanding,  the  Spirit  of  counsel 
and  fortitude,  the  Spirit  of  knowledge  and  piety, 
the  Spirit  of  the  fear  of  God,  the  Spirit  of  grace 
and  prayer,  the  Spirit  of  love. 

Such  is  the  Spirit  of  My  Heart;  a supernatural, 
divine  Spirit,  who  is  charity,  a love  embracing  all 
;irtues. 

This  Spirit  of  My  Heart,  is  love  breathing  love; 
gently  and  strongly  leading,  He  directs  to  things 
perfect,  moves  to  make  sacrifices,  allures  to  deeds 
heroic. 

3.  Blessed  is  he,  My  Child,  who  possesses  the 
divine  Spirit  of  My  Heart,  and  allows  himself  to 
be  guided,  in  all  things,  by  the  same!  For  they 
who  are  impelled  by  the  Spirit  of  God,  the  same 
are  the  sons  of  God. 

Not  appearance,  nor  profession,  but  the  Spirit 
makes  thee  a true  Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

What  will  all  else  avail  thee,  if  thou  dost  no*, 
possess  this  Spirit?  He  that  has  not  My  Spirit,  is 
not  of  Mine. 

Without  My  Spirit,  the  things  which  I do,  shall 
have  no  meaning  for  thee;  thou  wilt  not  rightly 


i8o 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


understand  what  I teach ; nor  wilt  thou  find  a hearty 
relish,  for  what  I enjoin.  Thou  canst  know,  under- 
stand, and  enjoy  the  things,  which  are  Mine,  only 
insomuch  as  thou  shalt  be  possessed  of  My  Spirit. 

If  thou  art  endowed  with  My  Spirit,  My  judg- 
ments shall  be  thy  judgments:  My  sentiments,  thy 
sentiments:  the  life  of  My  Heart,  the  life  of  thy 
heart. 

In  this  Spirit,  every  true  Disciple  of  My  Heart, 
views  all  things:  by  this  alone,  he  judges  of  all 
things:  by  this  alone,  he  acts,  and  is  impelled. 

Be,  then,  possessed  of  the  Spiiit  of  My  Heart, 
and  do  whatsoever  thou  wilt:  this  Spirit  will  guide 
thee  safely,  and  protect  thee  in  all  things. 

4.  This,  My  Spirit,  has  influenced  all  the  Saints: 
Its  unction  taught  them,  Its  virtues  strengthened 
them,  Its  holiness  shaped  them. 

See,  what  It  taught  the  Apostles  and  Martyrs,  the 
Confessors  and  Virgins:  behold,  to  what  degree  It 
strengthened  them:  see  how  It  formed  them,  so 
that,  trampling  upon  the  whole  world,  and  forsaking 
themselves,  some  went  to  the  tortures  of  death,  as 
if  they  were  hastening  to  a glorious  triumph ; others 
endeavored  to  equal  the  Angels  themselves;  others 
again,  trod  blamelessly  the  common  walks  of  life: 
but  all  followed  Me  with  cheerfulness,  and  kept 
themselves  to  the  end,  in  My  company,  amid  all  the 
vicissitudes  of  earth. 

What  is  there,  which  the  Saints,  incited  by  My 
Spirit,  did  not  undertake?  what  did  they  not  do, 
that,  whilst  sanctifying  themselves,  they  might  ever 
love  and  glorify  Me,  more  and  more,  and,  as  far  as 
thev  were  able,  bring  all  men  to  love  and  glorify 
Me? 


CHAPTER  IV. 


iSl 

These  were  perfect  Disciples  of  My  Heart;  filled 
with  My  holy  Spirit,  they  drew  thence  all  their 
thoughts,  regulated  all  their  words,  directed  all 
their  works,  and  shaped  their  whole  life. 

5.  My  Child,  if  thou  desirest  to  learn  this  Spirit 
of  My  Heart,  study  My  life,  and  meditate  devotedly 
thereon;  enter  into  the  interior  of  My  Heart,  and 
affectionately  examine  and  weigh  Its  sentiments:  by 
Its  fruits  thou  shalt  know  the  same  everywhere. 

Dost  thou  not  find  My  Spiiit  working  in  all, 
and  in  every  mystery  of  My  life  ? 

What  will  it  avail  to  know  My  Spirit,  unless 
thou  receivest  of  Its  fullness  ? Pray  then,  My 
Child,  pray  fervently,  that  thou  mayst  be  quickened 
by  It,  or  obtain  an  increase  of  Its  quickening. 

If  thou  prayest,  as  it  behooves  thee,  thou  wilt 
doubtless  receive  It:  for  I have  promised  to  give 
My  good  Spirit  to  them  that  ask. 

The  better,  and  the  more  thou  prayest,  the  more 
thou  shalt  receive  of  the  same,  the  more  perfectly 
thou  shalt  know  It,  and  the  more  easily  thou  shalt 
follow  its  guidance. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  of  the 
fullness  of  whose  Spirit,  Thy  Disciples  so  receive,  as 
to  live  thereby,  send,  I beseech  Thee,  the  Spirit  of 
Thy  Heart  into  my  heart,  that  It  may  quicken  and 
guide  me  in  all  and  through  all. 

Neither,  as  Eliseus  asked  Elias,  do  I beg  that 
Thy  twofold  Spirit  may  dwell  in  me,  since  my  little 
heart  cannot  even  contain  Thy  single  one;  but  I 
entreat  Thee,  replenish  me  wholly  with  Thy  Spirit, 
expel  from  me  forever  the  spirit  of  the  world,  and 
the  spirit  of  self. 

Grant  that,  in  Thy  Spirit,  my  heart  may  rightly 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


IS2 

relish  that  wherein  Thy  Heart  delights;  understand 
whatever  It  teaches;  taste  in  a manner  affective, 
as  well  as  effective,  whatever  It  does. 

Grant  me  to  live,  hereafter,  by  Thy  Spirit,  not 
simply  the  life  of  nature,  but  of  grace;  not  simply 
a human  life,  but  one,  in  some  manner,  god-like, 
the  life  of  Thy  Spirit. 


CHAPTER  V. 

THAT,  OE  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  WHILST 
AN  INFANT,  WE  MUST  LEARN  HUMILITY. 

1.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple. — How,  O Jesus! 
art  Thou  born  for  us  a Child,  and  given  to  us  an 
Infant!  Art  not  Thou  Who  Art:  is  not  this  Thy 
name  forevermore  ? 

Who  shall  declare  Thv  generation!  Behold! 
Thou  art  from  eternity  to  eternity. 

Who  shall  speak  Thy  power,  or  make  known 
Thy  other  perfections?  Through  Thee,  all  things 
were  made:  by  Thee,  all  are  ruled:  Thou  tillest 
the  heavens  and  the  earth:  and  lo!  in  what  a state 
do  I behold  Thee  here! 

O prodigy!  O miracle!  God,  behold!  the  infinite 
God,  lies  here  an  Infant,  in  this  cave! 

He  emptied  Himself,  having  become  a Child,  an 
exile  in  the  midst  of  humiliations,  unknown  and 
contented. 

How,  O most  sweet  Jesus,  how,  I beseech  Thee, 
wast  Thou  born  a Babe,  and  given  us  as  a Child? 

2.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  I came  to  save 


CHAPTER  V. 


183 


that  which  was  lost.  So  great  was  the  fall  of  the 
human  race  that  its  restoration  demanded  such  an 
humiliation  of  the  Son  of  God. 

Man  had  sunk  into  the  abyss  of  pride:  in  lowli- 
ness I came  down,  and  entered  the  abyss,  to  snatch 
him  thence. 

Before  I came  into  the  world,  pride  had  so  far 
darkened  and  corrupted  the  minds  of  nations,  that 
they  not  only  did  not  acknowledge  humility  as  a 
virtue;  but,  on  the  contrary,  deemed  it  weakness 
of  soul,  and  were  shocked  thereat. 

For  when  they  knew  God,  whose  light  is  placed 
as  a seal  upon  the  human  heart,  they  glorified  Him 
not  as  God;  they  became  vain  in  their  thoughts 
and  their  foolish  heart  was  darkened:  they  grew 
corrupt  and  abominable  in  their  desires.  Thus, 
well-nigh  all  flesh  had  corrupted  its  way. 

What  cculd  be  better,  and  more  effective,  to  free 
the  world  from  so  great  and  baneful  an  error,  than 
the  example  of  a God,  supremely  wise  and  perfect, 
abasing  Himself  unto  emptiness,  thus  confounding 
all  human  pride,  and  refuting  forever  its  false 
reasonings  and  pretenses. 

3.  Pride,  My  Child,  has  ever  been  and  will  con- 
tinue to  be  the  source  of  all  evils;  but  humility  is 
the  principle  of  all  good  things. 

Truth  begets  humility,  which  is  the  virtue  of  vir- 
tues, and  charity  gives  it  life  and  form. 

First  of  all,  then,  thoroughly  know  thyself  and 
God,  that  thou  mayst  attribute  to  God  the  things 
which  are  of  God,  and  to  thyself  what  is  thy  own. 

Take  care,  therefore,  My  Child,  to  understand 
what  thou  art  of  thyself.  What  art  thou  of  thy- 
self? What,  except  a mere  nothing,  out  of  which 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


184 

God  created  thee?  This  nothingness  is  thy  own, 
but  the  being  which  thou  art,  is  of  God. 

If  thou  thinkest  that  thou  art  something,  where- 
as, of  thyself,  thou  art  nothing,  thou  deceivest,  thou 
misleadest  thyself. 

What  dost  thou  possess  of  thyself,  by  nature,  or 
by  grace?  In  the  order  of  nature,  thou  hast,  in- 
deed, the  powers  of  the  soul,  the  senses  of  the  body, 
the  gifts  of  the  mind,  the  outward  qualities  cf  per- 
son. But  whence  did  all  these  things,  of  what  kind 
soever  they  be,  come  to  thee?  Whose  are  they? 
Take  away  that  which  Gcd  made,  and  gave  to  thee, 
and  what  remains,  except  nothingness?  This  latter, 
again,  is  thy  own,  the  former  is  cf  God. 

In  giving  thee  these  things,  He  gave  them  for  an 
end,  that  thou  mightst  use  them  for  His  glory,  and 
for  thy  salvation.  If  thou  hast  ever  made  use  of 
all  and  every  one  cf  them,  for  that  end,  thcu  hast 
done  what  thou  wast  obliged  to  do.  If,  at  any  time, 
thou  hast  made  an  ill  use  of  them,  beheld!  beside 
thy  nothingness,  thou  must  claim  also  as  thy  own, 
ungratefulness,  frowardness,  and  the  mis-spending 
of  God’s  favors. 

Now,  what  art  thou  in  the  order  cf  grace?  My 
Child,  is  not  this  a fathomless  abyss?  It  is  certain 
that  of  thyself,  without  the  help  of  grace,  thou  pos- 
sessest  nothing  wdiich  can  promote  thy  salvation; 
thou  canst  do  nothing  to  save  thyself.  Whatsoever, 
therefore,  thou  hast  of  the  supernatural  order; 
whatever  virtues,  whatever  merits,  thcu  mavst  pos- 
sess; all  these  are  the  effects' cf  grace,  witheut  which 
they  could  not  even  have  been  tegun,  much  less 
brought  to  perfection.  If,  then,  Gcd  rewards  these 
xhings  in  thee,  He  does  but  crown  His  own  gifts. 


CHAPTER  V. 


185 


it  is,  indeed,  true,  My  Child,  that  to  acquire  these 
things  thou  didst  co-operate  with  grace.  But  this 
very  co-operation,  if  duly  considered,  what  does  it 
disclose?  Ii  is  evident,  by  faith,  that  thou  must 
one  day  give  a strict  account  of  every  grace.  For, 
thou  art  obliged  to  cause  each  grace  to  produce 
its  fruit  by  thy  co-operation. 

Did  not  this  consideration  fill  the  very  Saints 
with  the  lowliest  sentiments?  What  thoughts,  then, 
must  it  needs  force  upon  thee,  who  so  often  ill  co- 
operatest  with  grace,  nay,  even  slightest  it  ? 

If  thou  art  unable  to  count  the  shortcomings  of 
thy  co-operation  with  grace,  ponder  the  number 
and  magnitude  of  the  debts  thou  hast  contracted, 
by  the  neglect  or  ill  use  of  the  gifts  of  God,  in  ad- 
dition to  thy  own  nothingness,  and  powerlessness, 
in  the  order  of  grace. 

My  Child,  if  thou  rightly  considerest  the  obliga- 
tion of  co-operating  with  God’s  grace,  and  of  mak- 
ing a proper  use  of  His  gifts,  even  of  thos  in  the 
natural  order;  thou  wilt  understand,  as  the  Saints 
understood  it,  that  the  more  and  the  greater  the 
favors  thou  didst  receive,  the  greater  reason  thou 
hast  for  deeply  humbling  thyself. 

4.  But  there  are  tilings  worse  and  more  humili- 
ating hidden  from  the  sight.  See  and  examine  thy 
manifold  miseries,  offenses,  and  sins:  and  weigh 
well,  what  thou  hast  justly  deserved  thereby. 

Hadst  thou  received  what  is  rightly  due  to  thee, 
shouldst  thou  not  long  since  have  felt  the  contempt 
of  all  the  inhabitants  of  heaven,  of  earth,  and  of 
hell,  and  suffered  everlasting  degradation  ? 

And  if,  perhaps,  thou  hast  done  naught  on  ac- 
count of  which  thou  deservest  to  be  cast  away,  thou 


i86 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


hast  no  cause  to  be  elated.  For,  that  thou  wast 
thus  kept  from  grievous  faults,  is  not  thy  own,  but 
chiefly  the  work  of  grace. 

Nay  more,  by  one  venial  transgression,  commit- 
ted against  the  infinite  Majesty  of  God,  thou  didst 
deserve  greater  humiliations  than  the  world  can  in- 
flict upon  thee. 

5.  What,  then,  My  Child,  what  art  thou?  What 
compared  with  all  men?  Nothing  more  than  a 
drop  of  water  compared  with  all  the  oceans.  And 
what  are  all  men  viewed  in  connection  with  all  the 
myriads  of  Angels?  Assuredly  less  than  this  earth 
is  to  the  boundless  heavens.  And  what  are  all  the 
angels  in  comparison  with  God  Himself?  Behold! 
they  are  as  if  they  wrere  not;  because  the  difference 
is  infinite.  Now^,  compared  with  the  infinite  God, 
what  art  thou,  a puny  being,  dwelling  in  a little 
corner  of  this  globe  ? 

What  art  thou,  in  truth,  My  Child,  or  what  dost 
thou  possess,  to  make  thee  proud?  yea,  what  hast 
thou  for  which  thou  shouldst  not  humble  thyself  ? 

I do  not  say  these  things  to  cause  thee  to  blush, 
but  to  give  thee  warning,  thee,  well-beloved  Child  of 
My  Heart,  lest,  misled  by  pride,  thou  fall  away  and 
perish. 

6.  To  God  alone  be  honor  and  glory,  from  every 
creature.  He  alone  is  truly  and  exceedingly  wor- 
thy to  receive  empire,  and  power,  and  benediction 
and  praise,  and  supreme  worship,  forever  and  ever. 

All  the  perfections  seen  in  creatures,  how  excel- 
lent soever  they  may  appear,  are  only  darksome 
rays  of  God’s  perfections,  which  are  every  way  ab- 
solute and  infinite. 

Even  had  God  not  so  commanded,  His  boundless 


CHAPTER  V.  187 

periections  sfrould  have  to  be  acknowledged  and 

honored  by  every  reason-gifted  being. 

Nay  more,  His  own  glory  is  so  essentially  to  be 
referred  to  God,  that  He  Himself  cannot  be  indif- 
ferent in  its  regard:  for  He  alone  is  worthy  of 
Himself. 

7.  Precious,  My  Child,  is  the  knowledge  of  God 

and  of  thyself,  for  it  reveals  a great  truth,  most  fit 

to  humble  thee.  Yet  this  knowledge  itself  is  not 
humility,  since  virtue  consists  not  in  knowledge 
but  in  affection. 

Neither  does  the  virtue  of  humiJity  consist  in 
humiliation,  but  rather  in  the  love  of  humiliation. 
For,  there  is  no  virtue,  unless  there  be  affection,  or 
motion  of  a good  will. 

How  many  there  are  who  humble  themselves,  or 
are  humbled  by  others,  and  yet  are  not  humble' 
how  many  do  outwardly  give  signs  of  humility,  and 
yet  keep  pride  within  themselves. 

In  order  that  humility  be  a virtue,  such  as  that 
of  My  Disciples  ought  to  be,  and  that  self-abase- 
ment be  an  act  of  such  a virtue,  it  must  receive  its 
life  and  form  from  charity,  or  supernatural  affec- 
tion. 

The  virtue  of  humility  is  that  supernatural  affection 
which  inclines  and  moves  thee,  always  so  to  tend 
to  thy  proper  place,  that  thou  givest  to  God 
the  things  which  belong  to  God,  thanksgiving, 
honor,  glory;  and  ascribest  to  thyself  whatsoever  is 
thine,  nothingness  and  unworthiness  of  every  kind. 

Now,  which  is  thy  own  proper  place?  O My 
Child,  how  deep,  how  terrible  is  that  place  which 
thou  hast  deserved!  But  see  the  love  of  My  Heart! 
To  console  thee,  to  exalt  thee.  I became  man,  hum- 


i8S 


THE  SECOND  BOOK, 


bled  Myself  in  thy  stead,  and  assigned  thee  a better 
and  more  honorable  place.  Since  that  time,  thy 
place  is  with  Me. 

But  where  shalt  thou  be  with  Me?  where  shalt 
thou  find  Me?  An  Infant  in  the  manger,  exiled 
and  unknown  in  Egypt,  hidden  at  Nazareth,  toiling 
and  suffering  in  public,  occupying  the  last  place, 
and  dying  therein. 

8.  With  Me,  Child,  thou  shalt  be  far  from  pride, 
which  is  hateful  to  God  and  men,  begets  every  sin, 
corrupts  every  virtue,  despoils  of  merits,  heaps  up 
punishments,  despises  the  example  of  My  Heart, 
follows  the  footsteps  of  the  devil. 

Happy  lowliness!  blissful  virtue,  which  makes 
thee  find  favor  with  God  and  men!  For,  whilst  God 
resists  the  proud,  He  gives  His  grace  to  the  lowly; 
and,  whilst  the  proud  themselves  look  down  upon 
the  proud,  they  admire  the  humble. 

Humility  is  the  first  of  virtues:  no  virtue  is  ac- 
quired without  it.  Humility  produces  all  other 
virtues,  nourishes  them  when  produced,  and  pre- 
serves them  safe  and  sound. 

A l zoble  virtue  is  humility,  which  makes  man 
truly  generous  and  great-souled.  By  its  means  he 
overcomes,  not  only  what  is  most  arduous,  but  he 
even  conaxuers  himself. 

Whilst  the  proud  man,  with  his  narrow  heart, 
fettered  by  the  dread  of  humiliation,  which  may, 
perhaps,  befall  him,  struggles  with  himself,  shrink- 
ing back  at  one  time,  hesitating  at  another,  whether 
or  not  to  assail  the  difficulty  placed  before  him;  tne 
humble  one,  with  a great  and  expanded  heart,  has 
already  subdued  himself,  ove~come  the  difficulty, 
and  marches  onward  rejoicingly. 


CHAPTER  Y. 


189 

It  is  the  virtue  that  inspires  courage — disposes 
the  soul  for  the  greatest  deeds.  For  the  humble 
man,  overlooking  himself,  and  relying  upon  God. 
exchanges  his  own  strength,  and  puts  on  the 
strength  of  God,  upon  whom  he  rests,  and  in  whom 
he  can  do  all  things. 

He  is  an  object  of  terror  to  the  very  demons. 
These  enemies  dread  the  humble:  no  other  mortals 
do  they  fear  so  much. 

Lastly,  it  is  a solid  virtue,  because  it  so  strength- 
ens man,  that  he  is  neither  shaken  by  the  sayings 
or  doings  of  others,  nor  cast  down  by  his  own  faults 
or  miseries. 

It  is  not,  therefore,  the  virtue  of  humility,  but 
its  counterfeit,  which  renders  thee  fainthearted, 
timorous,  or  in  any  wise  dejected.  So  noble  a vir- 
tue does  not  produce  such  ignoble  effects. 

9.  My  Child,  although  humility  is  so  just,  so 
useful,  so  necessary,  so  excellent,  thou  shouldst  not- 
withstanding know,  that  it  is  not  according  to  hu- 
man feelings,  not  to  find  one’s  delight  in  some  ob- 
ject, but  in  all  things  to  refer  absolutely  the  whole 
glory  to  God, — to  attribute  to  one’s  self  nothing 
except  unworthiness, — to  be  contented  with  Me  in 
the  lowest  place,  to  embrace  heartily  whatever  My 
Heart  embraces. 

Certainly,  if  thou  consultest  nature,  it  will  shrink 
back  from  such  things,  and  seek  to  avoid  them. 
Yet,  if  thou  desirest  to  be  a Disciple  of  My  Heart, 
thou  must  not  follow  nature,  but  grace:  and  act, 
not  according  to  the  bent  of  thy  natural  feeling,  but 
according  to  divine  love,  whereby  thou  mayst  imi- 
tate My  Heart,  even  in  spite  of  nature. 

If  thou  dost  this,  it  will  be  with  thee  as  it  was 


190 


iRE  SECOND  BOOK. 


with  the  Saints,  who  tasted  a sweetness  exceeding 
nature,  in  humility,  and  found  by  experience  that 
humiliations  themselves  were  full  of  delight. 

Secure  for  thyself,  by  prayer  and  meditation,  the 
powerful  help  of  grace,  and,  generously  co-operat- 
ing with  the  same,  embrace  humility  with  mind  and 
heart, — exercise  thyself  in  it,  until  thou  art  able 
readily  to  reduce  it  to  practice  in  thought,  word, 
and  deed. 

My  Child,  be  ever  mindful  of  My  example,  and 
forget  not  My  words.  Behold!  I,  an  Infant,  give 
thee  a new  command,  the  command  of  My  Heart: 
Learn  of  Me,  that  I am  meek  and  humble  of  Heart. 

10.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet 
Jesus!  O Infant  God,  wdio  didst  empty  Thyself 
by  humility!  Lo!  the  stable,  wherein  Thou  dwell  - 
est,  the  darkness,  wherein  Thou  art  hidden,  the 
very  silence,  that  surrounds  Thee,  all  cry  out,  how 
humble  of  Heart  Thou  art. 

O Thou  Teacher  of  humility!  behold  me  pros- 
trate at  Thy  feet,  that  of  Thee  I may  learn  that  all- 
important  virtue. 

Enlightened  and  enkindled  by  the  flames  of  Thy 
Heart,  may  I ever  know  Thee,  ever  know  myself, 
that  thus  I may  always  and  everywhere  ascribe  to 
Thee  wdiat  is  Thine,  and  to  me  what  is  mine! 

Hitherto,  I own  it,  I have  never  rightly  under- 
stood the  meaning  of  humility.  Now  I understand, 
now  I see,  that  by  the  virtue  of  humility  I am 
neither  debased  nor  disgraced,  but  raised  and  en- 
nobled; since  by  it  I am  elevated  to  the  resem- 
blance of  Thyself,  who  alone  art  eminently  noble. 

O most  kind  Jesus!  givest  Thou  me  a place  near 
Thee!  O Lord1  I am  not  worthy.  And  yet,  how 


CHAPTER  VI. 


191 

did  I ever  seek  any  other  place,  as  if  I could  find  a 
better  place  than  with  Thee  I Forgive,  O Loid,  for- 
give my  ungratefulness,  my  injustice,  my  madness. 

Henceforth,  behold,  I am  forever  with  Thee. 
Let  them  seek  after  higher  places,  who  are  anxious 
to  be  above  others:  for  myself,  as  much  as  I am 
allowed,  I will  strive  for  the  lowest,  convinced  that 
there  I shall  be  with  Thee.  My  only  longing  is  to 
be  with  Thee:  with  Thee  I will  be  contented 
wherever  I may  be. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  BORN  IN 
A STABLE,  TEACHES  US  HOLY  POVERTY. 

i.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple. — For  Thee,  Lord 
Jesus,  for  Thee,  my  heart  longs:  Thee,  my  soul 
seeks,  whom  she  loves.  Show  me,  I entreat  Thee, 
where  Thou  dwellest. 

The  voice  0}  Jesus. — Come,  My  Child,  and  see. 
This  shall  be  a sign  to  thee:  thou  shalt  find  Me 
poor,  in  a stable. 

Hearken  thou,  and  give  heed  to  what  My  Heart 
may  speak  to  thee. 

The  foxes  have  their  holes,  the  birds  of  the  air 
have  their  nests:  but  the  Son  of  man  has  not  where 
tc  recline  His  head. 

Yet,  My  Child,  the  whole  earth  is  Mine,  and  the 
fudness  thereof.  But,  behold  1 when  I was  the 
richest,  I became  the  poorest  of  all. 

From  the  time  I was  born  needy  in  the  stable, 


192  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

until  I breathed  My  last  destitute  upon  the  cross,  I 
lived  ever  in  perfect  poverty,  and  as  I ever  loved  it 
as  My  mother,  so  I ever  honored  it  as  a Son. 

And  for  what  reason,  thinkest  thou,  with  what 
design  does  My  Heart  so  lovingly  embrace  poverty? 
Undoubtedly,  My  Child,  because  My  Heart,  filled 
as  It  is  with  humility  and  charity,  cherishes  these 
virtues  most  tenderly,  and  desires  most  ardently, 
by  their  means,  to  draw  the  hearts  of  men  from 
things  earthly  and  perishable,  and  raise  them  aloft 
to  that  which  is  heavenly  and  everlasting. 

2.  Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit,  for  theirs  is 
the  kingdom  of  heaven:  blessed,  for  that  they  are 
free  from  the  greatest  obstacles  to  everlasting  sal- 
vation: blessed,  for  that  they  possess  a whole- 
some opportunity  of  practicing  numberless  virtues: 
blessed,  lastly,  because  in  their  heart,  they  are 
conformed  to  Me. 

My  Child,  to  have  nothing,  nay,  even  to  be  in 
want,  is  not  the  virtue  of  poverty:  but  to  keep  the 
heart  disengaged  from  the  created  things  of  the 
world;  this  constitutes  the  true  virtue  of  poverty. 
For  love  of  Me,  to  bid  farewell  to  all  things  of 
earth,  to  possess  nothing  as  one’s  own,  to  cling 
with  the  heart  to  no  created  object,  is  the  perfection 
of  the  virtue  of  poverty. 

To  this  latter  all  are  not  called,  but  to  the 
former  all  and  every  one  must  tend,  insomuch,  that 
it  is  easier  for  a camel  to  pass  through  the  eye  of  a 
needle,  than  for  any  one  without  it  to  enter  the 
kingdom  of  heaven. 

For,  unless  a man  renounce,  with  the  heart  at 
least,  all  things,  he  cannot  be  My  Disciple. 

3.  There  is  nothing  more  wicked  than  the  love 


CHAPTER  VI. 


m 


of  money,  for  this  love  perverts  the  judgment,  and 
misleads  the  heart:  and,  since  all  things  obey 
money,  he  that  loves  it,  blinded  by  its  inordinate 
desire,  sets  his  own  soul  for  sale,  so  that  he  is  ready 
to  sell  this  immortal  gift  for  a perishable  object. 

The  Saints  used  the  things  of  earth,  with  a heart 
free  from  them;  amid  the  greatest  wealth,  they 
were  poor  in  spirit. 

Yet,  there  are  not  a few  who  allow  the  enemy 
of  man’s  salvation  to  deceive  them,  by  the  ap- 
pearance of  what  is  good  or  right.  That  crafty 
foe  strives  to  persuade  men  that  riches,  or 
the  abundance  of  the  good  things  of  earth, — as 
they  are  indifferent  in  themselves,  and  may  be  use- 
fully spent, — can  be  coveted  and  sought  after  with- 
out danger. 

But,  whosoever  suffers  himself  to  be  so  deceived, 
soon  discovers,  that  he  has  become  entangled  in 
the  snares  of  the  devil’s  artifices,  that  he  is  weighed 
down  by  troubles,  darkness,  perverse  inclinations: 
that,  whatever  his  state  of  life,  he  is  unable  to  attain 
to  its  perfection;  and  that,  finally,  he  imperils,  in 
no  small  degree,  his  everlasting  salvation. 

4.  My  Child,  if  thou  hast  riches,  set  not  tny 
heart  upon  them:  for  thou  art  a steward,  rather 
than  a master.  With  a heart  disengaged  from 
them,  either  renounce  them  altogether,  if  such  be 
the  divine  Will,  or  use  them  for  My  glory,  and  for 
the  real  benefit  of  thy  soul. 

Thou  must  be  so  disposed  that,  if  it  be  My  Will, 
thou  shouldst  renounce  all  things,  or,  if  I suffer  thee 
to  be  deprived  of  them,  thou  do  willingly  submit 
thyself  to  Me. 

Tf  thou  art  poor,  rejoice,  My  Child,  and  be  ex- 


194 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


ceedingly  glad:  and  lose  not  the  fruit  of  so  great 
a blessing,  by  suffering,  repiningly,  the  effects  of 
poverty. 

Be  not  ashamed  of  being  in  moderate,  or  even 
destitute  circumstances,  for  My  sake,  who  was  not 
ashamed  of  becoming  destitute  for  thee:  but  rather 
glory,  for  that  thou  possessest  what  I purchased  for 
Myself,  by  many  and  great  humiliations. 

5.  Whether  thou  art  needy,  or  rich,  cherish  holy 
poverty,  and  practice  a virtue  so  dear  to  My  Heart, 
and  so  advantageous  to  thyself. 

There  is,  indeed,  no  condition  of  life  in  which 
this  virtue  may  and  should  not  be  practiced:  fre- 
quent opportunities  daily  present  themselves  every- 
where. 

This  great  virtue  may  be  exercised  in  regard  to 
one’s  dwelling-place,  furniture,  feed  and  drink;  in 
short,  rhe  whole  manner  of  living. 

For,  in  all  these  things,  either  something  is 
wanting,  which  is  not  really  necessary;  or,  if  not, 
it  is  not  according  to  the  desires  of  nature ; or 
something  may,  without  danger,  be  withdrawn  from 
what  is  had  for  nature’s  convenience. 

If  thou  lovest  holy  poverty  in  thy  heart,  as  is 
proper,  thou  shalt  not  want  means  and  opportunities 
of  practicing  the  same. 

How  many  poor  there  are  who  do  not  gather 
any  merit  from  their  poverty,  but  use  it  to  make 
themselves  more  wretched,  and  to  offend  God! 
Would  that  they  were  wise!  then,  instead  of  bitter- 
ness, they  would  taste  sweetness,  and  sanctify  them- 
selves. 

6.  The  name  of  the  poor  in  spirit,  who  love  and 
practice  poverty, — whe  her  it  arises  from  necessity 


CHAPTER  VI.  195 

or  free  choice, — is  honorable  before  Me.  With 
them,  I hold  fellowship  and  intercourse;  their 
heart  is  like  a fertile  soil,  which  receives  the  seed 
of  My  words,  and  brings  forth  fruit  a hundred-fold. 

Who  is  happier  than  the  possessor  of  holy  pov- 
erty, who  has  whatever  he  desires  in  this  world? 
Who  is  richer  than  he,  to  whom  belongs  the  king- 
dom of  heaven  ? 

Do  not  then,  My  Child,  neglect  thy  sanctifica- 
tion, for  the  sake  of  gathering  treasures  on  earth: 
use  thy  endeavors  principally  to  sanctify  thyself, 
rind  thus  to  lay  up  treasures  in  heaven. 

Wheresoever  the  object  of  thy  affections  may 
chance  to  be,  where  thy  treasure  is,  there  also  will 
be  thy  heart. 

7.  True  it  is,  that  for  man,  left  to  himself,  it  is 
rery  difficult  to  despise  in  his  heart  riches,  and  to 
practice  poverty  in  deed,  and  in  affection. 

Thou  shouldst,  therefore,  pray  fervently,  that 
divine  grace  may  help  thee  to  perform  that,  which 
thy  own  strength  does  not  enable  thee  to  accom- 
plish in  a meritorious  manner. 

If  thou  perceivest  within  thyself  feelings  opposed 
to  poverty,  persevere  in  prayer,  and  beg  the  more 
fervently,  even  against  thy  inclinations,  that  grace 
may  not  spare  those  inordinate  feelings,  but  root 
them  out  completely,  until  thy  heart  is  altogether 
free,  and  looks  solely  to  the  Will  and  glory  of  God. 

My  Child,  if  once  the  affections  of  thy  heart  are 
well-ordered,  thou  wilt  find,  through  divine  grace,  the 
virtue  of  poverty  not  only  easy,  but  even  full  of 
sweetness. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O sweet  Jesus, 
Son  of  God!  Thou  holdest  and  swayest  the  whole 


196  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

universe:  Thou  didst  adorn  the  heavens  with  glit- 
tering stars:  Thou  didst  embellish  the  earth  with 
wonderful  splendor;  and  behold!  here  Thou  re- 
clinest  in  a poor  stable,  a Babe  hardly  covered  with 
tattered  clothes. 

0 how  marvelous,  how  salutary  are  the  depos- 
ings of  Thy  Heart!  Who  will  not,  after  so  great 
an  example, — which  ravishes  the  very  Angels, — 
consider  poverty  lovely  and  desirable! 

Good  Jesus,  Teacher  of  the  Truth,  and  model  of 
holy  poverty!  enlighten  my  mind,  that  I may  un- 
derstand the  price  of  this  virtue,  and  tear  away  my 
heart,  even  in  spite  of  itself,  from  every  inordinate 
affection  for  things  created,  lest,  busied  with  vari- 
ous cares  and  desires,  it  become  estranged  from 
Thee. 

Grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that  I may  look  upon  all 
the  things  of  time  as  speedily  vanishing,  and  upon 
myself  as  passing  away  with  them  to  things  ever- 
lasting; allow  me  the  use  of  the  possessions  of 
earth,  only  insomuch  as  they  are  means  to  guide' 
me  to  heavenly  possessions. 

Everything  is  Thine,  O Lord:  if,  then,  Thou 
desirest  me  to  live  in  opulence,  as  the  steward  of 
Thy  possessions,  Thy  Will  be  done:  if  Thou  desir- 
est me  to  be  in  poverty,  a perfect  follower  of  Thv 
life,  again  Thy  Will  be  done. 

Yet,  so  far  as  it  is  left  to  me,  and  as  it  is  pleasing 
to  Thee,  I choose  rather  to  be  poor  with  Thee,  O 
Jesus,  the  Son  of  God,  than  to  be  rich  with  the 
world:  I prefer  to  possess  the  lasting  blessings  of 
poverty,  rather  than  undergo  the  ceaseless  dangers 
of  riches. 

1 offer  myself,  therefore,  to  Thee,  most  benign 


CHAPTER  Vn. 


197 


Jesus,  as  a companion  of  Thy  poverty:  I implore 
Thee  as  such  to  receive  me.  If  with  Thee,  I am 
contented:  if  I possess  Thee,  I am  rich  enough. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OE  JESUS,  DWELL- 
ING IN  SOLITUDE  AMONG  THE  ANGELS,  TEACHES 

US  HOLY  CHASTITY. 

i.  The  voice  0 j Jesus. — Come,  My  Child,  come 
to  the  solitude  of  the  sacred  Cave:  here  will  I 
speak  to  thy  heart:  here  will  I unvail  for  thee  the 
secrets  of  My  Heart. 

Here  look  around:  attend  to  what  thou  perceiv- 
est:  see,  what  surrounds  Me:  observe  the  objects 
vhich  keep  Me  company. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  I perceive 
Thy  Virgin  Mother,  Thy  Virgin  Foster-father,  a 
multitude  of  Angels,  rejoicing  and  singing,  in  Thy 
presence,  hymns  of  jubilee.  I see  Thee,  O Jesus, 
most  beautiful,  the  Lamb  of  God,  without  blemish! 
I behold  before  me  innocence  far  removed  from 
every  object  that  flatters  the  senses,  ravishing  heaven 
and  earth  by  its  loveliness. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Amid  these,  My  Child, 
My  Heart  rejoices,  and  finds  Its  delight,  because  It 
feeds  on  purity  among  the  lilies. 

I am  holiness  itself.  Born  of  a pure  Virgin, 
nourished  by  a pure  Virgin;  I am  the  most  tender 
’over  of  all  purity,  and  shrink,  with  all  My  Heart, 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


198 

from  every  object  which  is  hurtful  or  contrary  to 
this  virtue. 

2.  My  Heart  is  the  fountain  of  holy  purity, 
whence  all  they  draw,  who  desire  to  be  loved  by  Me. 

From  this  divine  fountain,  all  the  Disciples  of 
My  Heart  drink  in  the  love  of  chastity,  each  one 
according  to  his  capacity;  and  by  this  love,  as  by  a 
certain  mark,  are  they  distinguished. 

What  is  more  excellent  than  chastity,  whereby 
thou  offerest  to  God  the  Father,  who  is  a Spirit,  a 
spiritual  sacrifice  most  grateful  to  Him;  whereby, 
honoring  thy  body,  thou  honorest  My  own  mem- 
bers; whereby  thou  pavest  reverence  to  the  Hoi}/ 
Ghost,  whose  temple  thou  art  ? 

This  is  the  virtue  which  transforms  men  into 
Angels;  yea,  raises  them  above  the  heavenly 
Spirits. 

My  Child,  whosoever  is  chaste,  is  an  Angel:  nay 
more,  in  merit,  he  surpasses  the  Angel,  since,  in 
spite  of  nature,  he  becomes  through  virtue,  whaf 
the  Angel  is,  without  effort,  by  nature. 

This  is  the  glory  of  the  Church,  the  triumph  oi. 
grace,  the  flower  of  life,  the  ornament  of  the  body 
and  soul,  the  fairest  picture  of  heaven. 

3.  How  beautiful  is  a chaste  life!  Immortal  is 
the  remembrance  thereof;  because  it  is  known  to 
God,  and  grateful  to  men. 

A marvelous  virtue  it  is,  which  imparts  its  fresh- 
ness and  beauty,  not  only  to  the  soul  but  even  to 
the  body. 

What  the  lily  is  among  flowers,  that  purity  is 
among  virtues;  by  its  celestial  brightness  and  ele- 
gance, it  delights  and  refreshes  the  very  inhabitants 
of  Paradise. 


CHAPTER  VII. 


199 


So  much  does  its  loveliness  captivate  all  hearts 
that,  even  in  the  world,  there  is  none,  unless  he 
has  altogether  lost  his  reason,  who  does  not  ad- 
mire its  excellence. 

4.  Man,  with  a clean  heart  and  chaste  body,  en- 
ters heaven;  passes  even  into  the  sanctuary  of  the 
Divinity,  and  enjoys  the  familiar  intercourse  of  God 
and  His  Angels. 

The  carnal  man,  like  a senseless  animal  wallow- 
ing in  filth,  understands  not  the  things  which  are 
of  the  Spirit,  but  finds  his  delight  among  sensual 
objects,  the  fruits  of  which  are  alike  destructive  to 
soul  and  body. 

How  wretched  is  he  that  is  impure!  how  debased 
in  the  sight  of  heaven  and  earth!  how  like  in  his 
interior  to  the  demon,  who  is  called  the  unclean 
spirit! 

The  world,  submerged  by  the  Flood,  bears  wit- 
ness how  this  loathsome  vice  is  punished;  so  does 
the  land  of  Sodom,  laid  wraste  with  fire  and  brim- 
stone from  above;  so  does  every  unchaste  man,  de- 
livered up  to  his  reprobate  sense;  so,  above  all, 
does  hell. 

Purity,  on  the  other  hand,  saves  from  the  tyranny 
of  the  passions,  imparts  a most  delightful  peace, 
fills  the  whole  man  with  heavenly  joys;  yea,  adorns 
him  with  the  seal  of  the  Elect. 

5.  Which,  My  Child,  are  the  chief  delights  of 
My  Heart?  Are  they  not  pure  souls?  These  are 
they  that  by  the  purity  of  their  love,  fill  My  Heart 
with  most  pleasure;  these  busy  themselves  more 
frequently  about  Me;  solicitous  to  know,  how, 
above  all  others,  they  may  render  themselves  agree- 
able to  Me;  these,  being  both  inwardly  and  out- 


200 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


wardly  more  holy,  long  more  fervently  to  live  for 
Me. 

These  are  they  that  understand  more  easily  the 
secrets  of  My  Heart,  enjoy  with  more  relish  the 
unction  of  My  Spirit,  are  more  glowing  with  piety, 
and  are  wont  to  be  more  generous  and  faithful. 

To  these  My  Heart,  in  return,  communicates  It- 
self more  abundantly;  upon  them,  It  pours  the 
streams  of  more  perfect  love  and  consolation;  for 
them,  It  reserves  more  special  graces  and  favors. 

Them  I admit  into  the  innermost  sanctuary  of 
My  Heart:  with  them  I treat  in  a more  intimate 
manner;  them  I keep  nearer  to  Me  upon  earth,  as 
well  as  in  heaven. 

In  whatever  condition  of  life,  therefore,  thou 
mayst  be,  if  thou  wishest  to  be  as  dear  as  possible 
to  My  Heart:  if  thou  desirest  to  experience  the 
fullness  of  Its  tenderness:  if  thou  longest  to  taste, 
in  the  most  copious  manner,  Its  sweetness,  be  thou 
pure  in  body  and  soul. 

6.  My  Child,  this  treasure  thou  earnest  in  a frail 
vessel;  unless  thou  proceedest  cautiously,  thou  wilt 
easily  lose  the  same.  Take  heed,  however,  lest 
thou  advance  too  warily;  for  an  excessive  fear  be- 
comes a source  of  danger. 

Thou  must,  first  of  all,  guard  thy  heart,  watch 
over  its  inclinations,  check  its  thoughts.  For,  if 
thou  alio  west  thy  heart  to  wander  about,  it  shall 
not  long  continue  unstained. 

Be  never  altogether  idle:  idleness  is  the  dwell- 
ing-place of  the  unclean  spirit. 

Desire  not  to  be  too  familiar  with  any  mortal, 
even  were  he  a Saint,  or  a worker  of  miracles. 

Fly  dangerous  occasions,  as  thou  wouldst  a pesti- 


CHAPTER  VII. 


201 


lence.  How  many  there  are,  who,  though  else- 
where sufficiently  secure,  perish  here  miserably. 

7.  Turn  away  thy  eyes,  lest  they  behold  the  se- 
ductions of  vanity;  be  modest:  without  modesty, 
chastity  cannot  endure. 

Hedge  in  thy  ears  with  care,  lest,  through  them, 
the  enemy  find  access  to  thy  heart.  For,  where 
there  is  no  hedge,  the  possession  shall  be  laid 
waste. 

Keep  the  tongue  not  only  from  unclean  words,  but 
also  from  all  scurrility,  and  every  kind  of  language, 
of  which  the  devil  may  take  advantage  to  tempt 
thee  or  others. 

Restrain  the  taste  in  such  a manner,  that  thy 
temperance  in  food  and  drink  hinder  the  flesh  from 
rebelling,  and  endow  and  strengthen  the  spirit  with 
vigor. 

Mortify  the  touch  assiduously,  not  only  in  those 
things  which,  when  unlawfully  touched,  may  cause 
thee  to  die  the  death,  but  also  in  those  which, 
savoring  of  sensuality,  may,  by  the  aid  of  Satan, 
arouse  the  passions. 

8.  Be  persuaded,  however,  My  Child,  that,  after 
thou  hast  done  all  this,  thou  art  not  able  to  pre- 
serve this  most  precious,  most  beautiful,  yea,  most 
useful  and  necessary  virtue,  except  with  the  help 
of  divine  grace. 

Wherefore,  thou  shouldst  frequently  and  earn- 
estly ask  for  this  heavenly  gift,  and  beg  for  it  by 
fervent  prayer,  through  the  intercession  of  My 
Virgin  Mother,  My  Virginal  Foster-father,  thy 
Guardian  Angel,  and,  finally,  of  all  the  inhabitants 
of  heaven. 

The  enemy,  knowing  that,  through  purity,  men 


202 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


become  associated  with  the  choirs  of  Angels,  and 
merit  among  them  that  place  which  he,  by  his  un- 
cleanness, has  forfeited,  raves  with  envy,  and  leaves 
nothing  undone,  to  despoil  men  of  this  virtue. 

But  let  not  thy  heart  fear,  My  Child,  nor  be  dis- 
turbed; My  grace  is  sufficient  for  thee,  provided 
by  neglecting  the  proper  means,  thou  be  not  want- 
ing to  thyself. 

9.  Be  exceedingly  careful,  lest  thou  expose  thy- 
self rashly  to  dangers;  and,  after  having  overcome 
temptations,  do  not  ascribe  the  glory  of  the  victon 
to  thyself:  for,  since  all  this  springs  from  pride, 
it  will  doubtless  be  punished  with  a disgraceful 
humiliation. 

Through  grace,  thou  shalt  be  the  more  chaste, 
the  more  humble  thou  art:  for  it  is  humility  which 
deserves  that  chastity  be  given.  My  Child,  be  ever 
mindful  of  these  words. 

If  thou  wilt  be  perfect  in  the  virtue  of  chastity, 
be  inflamed  with  a god-like  love  for  Me:  for  no 
one,  unless  he  be  perfect  in  the  love  of  Jesus,  can 
be  perfect  in  chastity;  but  whosoever  loves  Jesus 
perfectly,  shall  be  perfectly  chaste,  perfectly  pure. 
Keep  this  secret  in  thy  memory,  keep  it  in  thy 
neart. 

10.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  Thou 
Virgin  of  Virgins!  whose  Mother  is  a Virgin,  whose 
Foster-father  is  a Virgin,  whose  inseparable  com- 
panions are  Angels;  whom  when  I approach,  I am 
clean;  whom  when  I love,  I am  chaste:  endless 
thanks  to  Thee,  for  that  Thou  didst  keep  my  heart 
free  from  the  love  of  all  carnal  pleasure,  and  didst 
enkindle  it  with  the  love  of  holy  purity. 

Afl  thev  that  love  Thee,  behold!  are  hastening 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


203 


after  Thee,  drawn  by  the  odor  of  Thy  most  delight- 
ful innocence,  and,  as  closely  as  they  can,  they  are 
following  Thee,  the  Lamb,  whithersoever  Thou 
goest. 

O Jesus,  Thou  lover  of  chaste  souls!  grant  me, 
I implore  Thee,  for  love  of  Thee,  with  all  the  Dis- 
ciples of  Thy  Heart,  to  value  supremely,  to  love  most 
tenderly  this  virtue  of  Angels,  and  shun  with  the 
greatest  abhorrence,  all  that  is  contrary  thereto. 

Sanctify  my  heart  and  body  with  Thy  love,  that 
I may  serve  Thee  with  a chaste  body,  and  please 
Thee  with  a clean  heart. 

O Jesus,  my  love  and  my  God!  who  didst  create 
me  in  Thy  likeness,  permit  not  that  I ever  sully  or 
unhallow  it  by  any  defilement. 

Suffer  not,  that  for  a short-lived  pleasure, — for 
which  I must,  either  now  or  afterwards,  endure 
shame  and  punishment, — I lose  that  virtue,  which 
is  my  present  and  future  glory  and  felicity. 

If  ever,  O most  sweet  Jesus,  Thy  love  should 
find  me  insensible  to  the  loveliness  and  the  rewards 
of  purity;  I beseech  Thee,  let  the  dread  of  the 
everlasting  flames  of  hell,  prevent  the  flame  of  vice. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

THAT  FROM  THE  MANGER  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART 
OF  JESUS,  TEACHES  US  HOLY  OBEDIENCE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Be  attentive,  My  Child: 
thou  must  hear  some  things  which  thou  hast  never 
learnt,  never  sufficiently  understood. 


204 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Learn  once  for  all  of  My  Heart,  and  remember 
what  obedience  is.  Lo!  from  this  moment  even  to 
My  latest  sigh,  obedience  is  My  food,  My  life. 

Observe  intently  and  devotedly  My  example; 
consider  the  dispositions  of  My  Heart. 

Behold,  if  they  put  Me  in  a rough  manger,  I 
remain  contented  therein:  if  they  lift  Me  in  their 
arms,  1 am  content  to  be  carried:  wheresoever  they 
place  Me,  there  I stay  contented. 

Whatever  be  the  wish  of  those  whom  My  heavenly 
Father  has  given  authority  over  Me,  that  do  I will 
likewise:  I have  no  other  will  than  to  will  or  not  to 
will  that  which  they  will. 

Neither  does  My  Heart  ask,  why  they  will  Me 
here  or  there:  the  judgment  of  the  authority  that 
wills,  is  the  judgment  of  Myself  who  obey. 

2.  Thus,  My  Child,  did  I,  the  All-knowing  and 
All-powerful  Lord,  subject  Myself  most  humbly  to 
creatures,  that  thou,  weak  in  understanding  and 
will,  mayst  learn  to  submit  thyself  to  them  that 
hold  My  place  in  thy  regard. 

Be,  therefore,  obedient  to  them,  with  a humble 
heart,  in  all  things  wherein  they  have  authority 
over  thee,  whether  it  be  in  temporal  or  in  spiritual 
matters.  For  all  power  is  from  God. 

W7herefore,  My  Child,  when  thou  obeyest  thy  Su- 
perior, thou  obeyest  Me.  For  thou  art  obedient 
and  submissive  to  the  authority  communicated  to 
him  by  Me. 

3.  If  the  Superior  be  devoid  of  virtue  and  good 
qualities,  this  is  no  reason  why  thou  shouldst  obey 
him  the  less.  For  he  does  not,  on  that  account, 
the  less  possess  My  authority,  and  hold  My  place. 

Whenever  he  enjoins  things  which  are  not  evi- 


CHAPTER  Vm. 


20^ 


dently  opposed  to  Me,  heed  thou,  and  perform 
whatsoever  he  mav  sav:  but  thou  art  not  obliged 
to  follow  him  in  his  doings. 

Be  not  concerned,  My  Child,  about  the  qualifi- 
cations of  the  one  that  commands,  but  attend  to  that 
which  is  commanded:  and  perform  it  faithfully,  as 
if  commanded  by  Myself. 

Let  the  Superior  be  whatever  he  may;  let  him 
act  through  this  motive  or  that;  what  matters  it  to 
thee?  follow  thou  Me:  seek  to  imitate  My  Heart, 
My  Will,  and  be  not  troubled  or  uneasy  about  the 
rest. 

4.  The  simple  performance  of  another’s  will  is 
not  the  virtue  of  obedience.  Do  not  irrational 
creatures  do  so?  nay  more,  even  machines  made 
by  the  hand  of  man? 

It  is  necessary,  when  thou  dost  the  will  of  the 
Superior,  to  be  willing  to  perform  with  a submis- 
sive heart,  that  which  he  wishes  thee  to  do;  that 
thus  thou  mayst  cheerfully  carry  out  My  Will, 
made  known  through  the  Superior. 

For,  although  it  may  happen  that  the  Superior 
does  command  through  ill-will  or  passion,  it  is 
yet  My  Will  that,  when  no  evil  is  commanded, 
thou  perform,  with  a good  heart,  what  the  Superior 
requires.  For  the  rest,  I will  judge  the  motive  of 
the  Superior,  who  commands,  and  of  the  inferior, 
who  obeys;  and  render  to  each  one  that  which  is  just. 

My  Child,  do  not  imitate  them  who,  deceiving 
themselves,  endeavor,  by  direct  or  indirect  means, 
to  bring  over  the  Superior  to  their  own  will.  These, 
although,  in  this  manner,  they  have  the  will  and 
consent  of  the  Superior,  do  not  fulfil  My  Will,  but 
their  own;  nor  do  they  practice  the  virtue  of  obe- 


206 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


dience,  but  they  obey  self-love;  nor  are  they  guided 
by  Me,  but  by  themselves. 

5.  In  order  that  the  virtue  of  obedience  be  per- 
fect, it  is  necessary  that, — believing  that  whatever 
I require  of  thee  through  obedience  is  justly  de- 
manded,— thou  submit  also  thy  understanding  or 
judgment  to  My  divine  authority,  represented  in 
the  person  of  the  Superior. 

The  less  thou  shalt  see  the  reason  of  the  things 
which  are  demanded  of  thee,  and  the  more  incon- 
sistent that  which  is  enjoined  shall  appear  to  thy 
manner  of  judging;  so  much  the  nobler  shall  be 
thy  obedience,  and  so  much  the  more  merit  shalt 
thou  have,  if  thou  submit  thy  understanding,  and 
fulfill  with  a good  will  what  is  commanded. 

Cast  aside,  therefore,  without  examination,  what- 
soever the  pride  of  reason,  or  the  repugnance  of 
sense,  may  object,  in  the  sincere  belief  that  My  di- 
vine Will,  made  known  to  thee  through  the  Supe- 
rior, rests  upon  the  best  and  most  certain  motives, 
although  thou  thyself  dost  not  see  them. 

It  happens,  frequently,  that  the  inferior  does  not 
see,  and  that  the  Superior  does  not  know,  the  true 
reasons  for  which,  by  the  Superior’s  command,  I 
desire  such,  or  such  other  things  to  be  done  by  the 
inferior.  Both  are  not  rarely  unconscious  instru- 
ments in  the  fulfillment  of  My  secret  designs. 

If  thou  wert  humble  of  heart,  and  burning  with 
love  for  Me,  it  would  not  be  hard,  or  difficult,  to 
abandon,  for  My  sake,  thv  judgment  and  will;  and 
it  would  be  most  consoling  and  sweet  to  have  thy 
weak  understanding  guided  by  My  infinite  Wisdom, 
and  thy  will,  prone  to  evil,  conformed  to  My  divine 
Will,  the  rule  of  all  good. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


207 


6.  A great  thing  is  obedience:  a sublime  virtue, 
whereby  a person  overcomes  himself,  and  so  dedi- 
cates himself  wholly  to  Me,  that  he  retains  for  him- 
self nothing  of  his  own,  but  offers  himself  entirely 
to  Me,  as  a holocaust. 

Do  I desire  other  sacrifices  without  this  one  ? Do 
x not  rather  require  that  I be  obeyed?  Better  is 
obedience  than  a victim. 

Who  is  stronger  than  the  obedient  man?  The 
obedient  man  shall  speak  triumphantly;  yea,  shall 
triumph  under  all  circumstances.  For  he  aims  at 
naught,  except  the  doing  of  the  divine  Will,  which 
he  always  secures. 

What  is  there,  My  Child,  which  the  obedient  man 
dares  not?  He  dares  everything,  when  commanded; 
he  brings  to  a favorable  issue  many  and  great 
things,  whilst  the  disobedient  loses  courage  and 
fails. 

7.  Nothing  is  safer  or  more  secure  than  obe- 
dience. The  obedient  person  is  never  lost ; nor  does 
he  perish  wTho  submits  his  will  and  judgment  to 
authority.  But  he  that  disobeys,  he  that  follows 
his  own  judgment  and  will,  to  the  neglect  of  au- 
thority, he  is  generally  lost,  and  perishes. 

The  obedient  man,  certain  of  the  reward  of  his 
actions,  shall  not  even  be  held  to  an  account:  they 
that  are  placed  over  him,  and  direct  him,  shall  be 
obliged  to  give  the  account. 

8.  Lastly,  My  Child,  so  necessary  is  obedience, 
that  no  works,  howsoever  good  they  be  otherwise, 
if  contrary  thereto,  can  be  pleasing  to  Me;  nor  can 
they  acquire  for  thee  any  merits. 

There'  is  no  state,  no  condition,  no  person  on 
earth,  that  is  not  bound  to  obey.  Without  obe- 


208 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


dience,  the  order  which  God,  who  loves  order  ne- 
cessarily, has  established,  could  not  be  preserved. 

Wherever  thou  mayst  be  placed  bv  obedience,  be 
assured,  that  thou  couldst  nowhere  be  better;  and 
that  thou  canst  do  nothing  more  pleasing  to  Me, 
and  more  useful  to  thyself,  than  that  which  is  en- 
joined by  obedience. 

Blessed  are  the  obedient!  they  hasten  on  to- 
ward heaven,  with  true  liberty,  in  great  peace,  in 
permanent  security;  but  the  disobedient  groan  be- 
neath the  galling  tyranny  of  their  own  will:  they 
enjoy  no  rest  of  heart,  through  a wearisome  road 
they  wander  toward  perdition. 

9.  My  Child,  whence  is  wont  to  arise  the  difficulty 
in  obeying?  Is  it  not  from  this,  that  thou  regard- 
est  the  person  of  the  Superior,  his  qualifications, 
his  manner  of  acting,  or  his  motives  for  command- 
ing? that  thou  considerest  not,  in  singleness  of  faith, 
as  thou  shouldst,  the  divine  authority  and  Will  alone  ? 

Such  an  example,  My  Child,  I did  not  give. 
Such  was  not  the  disposition  of  My  Heart.  Al- 
though I w^as  wiser  and  better  than  all  the  mortals 
who  exercised  authority  over  Me,  yet  I was  heartily 
submissive  to  them,  without  considering  the  per- 
sons or  their  qualifications,  without  judging  the 
motives  which  made  them  act  or  command. 

Nay  more,  I did  willingly  and  faithfully  obey, 
as  if  it  were  the  manifestation  of  My  Father’s 
Will,  the  command  of  Cesar  Augustus,  a pagan, 
who  issued  his  decree  with  an  evil-minded  will: 
and,  by  complying  with  this  order,  I did  really  do 
My  Father’s  Will — that  I should  be  born  in  the 
city  of  Bethlehem,  as  the  prophets  inspired  by  the 
Holy  Ghost  had  foretold. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


209 


Observe  My  whole  life : thou  wilt  find  it  fre- 
quently distinguished  by  similar  deeds. 

Look,  then,  My  Child,  and  act  according  tc  the 
example  which  My  Heart  has  given  thee.  If  thou 
do  this,  thou  wilt  find  obedience  easy,  sweet,  and 
full  of  consolation. 

10.  The  voice  0 / the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  how 
holy,  how  wonderful  is  Thy  Heart!  how  great  and 
profound  the  lessons  It  teaches!  howT  easy  It  makes 
everything!  Happy  he  that  understands  this! 

Yea,  blessed  he  that,  taught  by  the  example  of 
Thy  Heart,  fulfills  the  divine  Will  with  cheerful- 
ness! Behold,  such  a one  is  guided  by  infinite 
Wisdom,  helped  by  almighty  Power,  protected  by 
the  divine  Goodness. 

Who,  save  the  obedient  man,  enjoys  these  favors  ? 
Let  them  preside  and  command  who  have  received 
the  power:  for  me,  it  is  every  way  sweeter  and  bet- 
ter to  be  subject  and  obedient. 

O truly  happy  me,  if  I am  truly  obedient!  For 
the  Lord  God  rules  me,  and  I shall  want  nothing: 
set  in  a place  of  divine  pasture,  I roam  secure 
therein ; there  never-failing  streamlets  of  living 
waters  flow;  there  Manna  is  daily  showered  down 
from  heaven;  there  do  I live  for  Thee,  O Jesus; 
there  do  I surely  and  contentedly  merit  heaven. 

By  Thy  most  holy  obedience,  O Jesus,  most 
meek  and  humble  of  Heart,  grant  me,  I beseech 
Thee,  Thy  grace  and  Thy  love,  that  I may  be  per- 
fectly obedient,  by  renouncing  my  own  will  and 
judgment,  and  by  following,  in  singleness  of  faith, 
Thy  divine  Will  and  authority,  manifested  to  me 
through  lawful  Superiors. 

Certainly,  if  I,  blind-born  as  I am,  follow  self- 


210 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


love  as  a guide,  what  else  awaits  me,  blind  in  my 
judgment  and  inclinations,  except  to  fall  into  the 
pit  and  perish  there  ? 

I tremble  in  every  limb,  O Lord,  when  I call  to 
mind  that  many  men,  distinguished  for  deep  sci- 
ence and  extraordinary  human  prudence,  through 
want  of  obedience,  have  strayed  from  the  way  of 
salvation  and  become  reprobates. 

Behold,  I devote  and  intrust  myself  altogether 
to  Thy  most  wise,  holy,  and  divine  Will.  Give  me, 
I entreat  Thee,  Thy  singleness  of  understanding, 
Thy  readiness  of  Will:  grant  me  the  lowliness  and 
charity  of  Thy  Heart,  that  I may  be  like  Thee,  as 
an  infant  that  remains  contented,  wheresoever  it  may 
be  placed,  whithersoever  it  may  be  carried ; in  short, 
in  whatsoever  manner  it  may  be  treated. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

THAT,  AT  THE  CIRCUMCISION,  THE  MOST  SACRED 
HEART  OF  JESUS  TEACHES  US  MORTIFICATION 
OF  HEART. 

i.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Scarcely  yet  art 
Thou  come  among  us,  O Thou  the  delight  of 
heaven,  sweet  Jesus  I and  behold!  Thou  pourest 
out  Thy  Blood!  Disclose  to  me,  I pray,  what 
was  the  design  of  Thy  Heart  therein:  show  me,  I 
entreat  Thee,  what  were  then  the  feelings  of  Thy 
Heart.  For,  whatsoever,  Thy  Heart  feels,  I also 
long  to  feel. 


CHAPTER  IX. 


21 1 


The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  thou  oughtest 
to  be  so  disposed,  as  not  to  stop  at  the  things  which 
thou  perceivest  by  the  senses;  but  so  as  to  go  for- 
ward even  unto  My  very  Heart. 

Attend  then,  and  consider  how  mortified  is  My 
Heart.  I kn^w  well  that  I was  not  at  all  bound  by 
the  law  of  Circumcision;  that,  by  complying  there- 
with, I should  be  reckoned  among  sinners,  lowered 
before  men;  that  My  Body  should  undergo  suffer- 
ings, and  My  Soul  debasement;  but  My  Heart, 
moved  by  the  divine  Wdl,  enkindled  by  love  as 
with  a living  flame,  overcame  all  this. 

Understand,  My  Child,  the  inner  sentiments  of 
My  Heart,  and  be  mindful  of  putting  on  the  same. 

All  things  were  well-ordered  in  My  Heart;  there 
is  naught  inordinate  in  My  whole  Humanity.  Yet, 
I did  never  act  from  a mere  inclination  of  My  hu- 
man nature. 

This  I either  overcame  or  passed  by,  and  in  all 
things,  even  those  which  were  natural,  I acted  ever 
from  a supernatural  principle. 

Whether  the  things,  to  be  done  or  undergone, 
were  pleasing  or  displeasing  to  the  feelings  of  hu- 
man nature;  this  was  never  the  cause,  or  reason, 
why  I did  either  embrace  or  shun  them. 

I was  ever  moved  bv  the  divine  Will  to  do  and 

j 

suffer,  with  a willing  Heart,  all  things  that  were 
according  to  the  divine  good  pleasure. 

2.  Behold,  My  Child,  the  example  which  thou 
must  follow,  if  thou  desirest  to  be  a true  Disciple 
of  My  Heart. 

If  thou  lookest  well  into  thy  heart,  thou  shalt 
find  it  divided,  as  it  were,  into  two  parts,  each  of 
which  is  anxious  to  sway  it. 


212 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


One  of  these,  a sensual  propensity,  is  called  the 
inferior;  the  other,  a rational  inclination,  the  supe- 
rior part.  The  former  is  especially  vitiated  by 
original  sin:  the  latter  is  still  guided’ by  a supernal 
ray. 

With  the  first,  the  spirit  of  evil  is  wont  to  har- 
monize; the  good  Spirit,  on  the  other  hand,  es- 
pouses the  cause  of  the  second. 

The  inferior  part  struggles  to  extend  its  sway 
over  the  whole  heart,  and  maintain  it  by  means  of 
pride  and  self-love,  the  leaders  of  all  other  vices. 

The  superior  part,  through  humility  and  charity 
— which  preside  over  the  whole  host  of  virtues — 
desires,  with  perfect  justice,  to  rule,  to  conquer  and 
subdue,  as  its  foe,  the  part  opposed. 

3.  These  two  parts,  My  Child,  are  the  two  do- 
mestic enemies  that  hardly  ever  cease  to  war  against 
each  other,  whose  aims  are  opposite, — that  can  be 
put  down  and  subjugated,  but  never  destroyed  or 
exterminated. 

The  superior  part,  through  the  divine  favor,  by 
the  freedom  of  its  will,  possesses  such  strength 
that  not  only  the  inferior  part,  but  the  whole  world 
and  all  hell  united,  cannot  force  it  to  a surrender. 

Therefore,  the  inferior  part,  together  with  the 
evil  spirit,  endeavors,  by  every  possible  means,  to 
encompass,  to  disturb,  to  deceive,  to  worry  the 
same.  It  tries  every  artifice:  at  one  time  violence, 
at  another  caresses;  now  perverseness,  then  up- 
rightness; sometimes  it  shows  itself  an  enemy,  at 
others  a friend. 

Unless  thou  do  carefully  attend,  thou  wilt  hardly 
be  able  to  distinguish  between  them.  Yet  it  is 
necessary  to  know  them  distinctly.  For  on  this 


CHAPTER  IX. 


2I3 


discernment  depends  the  right  governing  of  the 
heart;  by  it  illusions  are  avoided,  vain  fears  are 
made  to  disappear,  inward  peace  is  preserved  and 
retained,  even  amid  the  greatest  afflcitions. 

The  more  one  part  is  mortified  and  subdued,  the 
more  the  other  is  made  to  live  and  triumph. 

4.  The  first  thing,  therefore,  to  be  deadened  in 
thy  heart  is  that  inferior  part,  the  inordinate  crav- 
ing of  nature,  which  is  also  called  selfishness,  or 
the  spirit  of  nature.  Against  this  thou  must  never 
cease  to  fight. 

If,  at  any  time,  this  enemy,  frightened  by  thy 
bravery,  be  put  to  flight,  or  forced  to  conceal  him- 
self— until  a more  favorable  opportunity  presents 
itself — do  thou  diligently  seek  him  out,  and,  when 
found,  strike  him  down  with  fresh  ardor. 

Thou  wilt  know  him  by  this  mark,  that  he  ever 
aims  immoderately  at  what  is  either  too  high  or 
too  low,  being  ever  carried  off  by  an  inordinate 
liking,  or  dislike,  beyond  the  order  which  divine 
Providence  has  established. 

On  the  one  hand,  proud  and  wandering  beyond 
his  sphere,  and  relying  on  his  own  powers,  he 
would  fain  search  and  look  into  the  insearchable 
counsels  of  the  Diety;  and,  although  he  does  not 
fully  comprehend  aught  of  what  is  beneath  him, 
yet,  he  would  measure,  by  his  own  dullness  and 
imbecility,  the  Wisdom,  Power,  and  other  perfec- 
tions of  God,  which,  in  their  very  nature,  are  in- 
comprehensible. 

He  struggles  against  admitting,  what  he  does  not 
both  see  and  love. 

He  is  ashamed  and  unwilling  to  own  that  he  has 
erred:  if  it  is  proved,  he  grows  stubborn 


2I4 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


He  seeks  to  be  prominent;  he  shrinks  from  the 
thought  of  being  surpassed,  or  brought  under  in 
anything. 

He  takes  for  granted  that  he  can  do  everything: 
if  he  has  brought  something  to  a prosperous  issue, 
he  is  wonderfully  self-pleased,  and  boasts  as  if  he 
had  performed  a miracle:  has  he  done  aught  un- 
successfully ? he  murmurs,  excuses  himself,  or 
throws  the  blame  upon  others. 

He  is  not  concerned  about  what  he  is  in  reality, 
but  about  what  he  may  appear  to  be  before  others: 
he  seeks  to  be  esteemed:  he  is  anxious  that  others 
should  speak  of  him:  he  longs  to  possess  the  affec- 
tion of  men. 

He  gains  enough,  if  he  is  praised:  if  no  one 
praise  him,  he  himself  makes  up  the  deficiency. 

In  himself,  he  either  sees  no  faults,  or  he  dis- 
guises them:  in  his  neighbor,  he  descries  them 
everywhere. 

He  is  prone  to  despise  others;  to  suspect  many 
things,  and  to  twist  them  into  evil. 

Hence,  on  the  other  hand,  he  is  ever  inclined  to 
what  is  low:  what  pleases  the  flesh,  what  flatters 
the  senses,  what  savors  of  the  world,  he  loves,  he 
relishes. 

He  judges  matters  according  to  his  own  pro- 
pensity, not  according  to  the  reality  of  the  things 
themselves. 

As  he  has  himself  for  an  end,  he  seeks  in  every- 
thing his  own  convenience  or  pleasure:  he  even 
endeavors  betimes  to  adapt  things  divine  to  himself. 
For  he  undertakes  occasionally  to  serve  Me,  whilst 
he  desires  to  gratify  himself. 

WBpreforp.  he  easilv  gives  admittance  to  the 


CHAPTER  IX. 


215 

angel  of  darkness,  who,  taking  the  shape  of  an  angel 
of  light,  suggests  to  him  many  things  apparently 
pious,  beautifully  thought,  tenderly  felt:  all  which 
increases  his  pride,  and  keeps  up  his  self-love. 

5.  My  Child,  if  this  spirit  of  nature  triumphs 
over  the  heart,  it  effects  the  ruin  of  the  heart. 

It  behooves  thee,  therefore,  to  deaden  this  part 
of  the  heart,  by  resisting  it,  by  going  counter 
thereto,  and  by  unceasingly  repressing  the  same,  as 
long  as  it  remains  vitiated  or  ill-ordered. 

Do  not  think  this  hard,  My  Child:  it  is  incom- 
parably more  easy  and  pleasant  to  subdue  the  same, 
and  govern  it  when  subdued,  than  to  be  ruled  and 
tormented  thereby. 

6.  But,  since  natural  reason  cannot,  by  itself, 
attain  to  a supernatural  end,  thou  must  likewise, 
by  mortification,  purify  and  elevate  the  superior 
part  of  the  heart. 

For,  if  thou  actest  from  natural  reason  alone, 
thou  canst  thence  gather  no  merit  for  life  everlast- 
ing; nor  wilt  thou  be  called  a Disciple  of  My 
Heart. 

Thou  must,  then,  mortify  the  whole  heart,  and 
subject  it  to  grace;  so  that,  in  all  things,  it  obeys 
the  divine  good  pleasure. 

In  thoughts,  in  words,  in  deeds,  in  sufferings, 
thou  shouldst  be  moved  by  divine  grace,  guided 
by  a supernatural  reason,  directed  to  Me  as  thy  end. 

Nowhere  suffer  thyself  to  be  hurried  into  any 
act,  by  the  mere  motion  or  impulse  of  nature;  but 
follow  grace,  act  according  to  My  Spirit. 

Use  the  powers  of  nature,  not  as  causes  or  prin- 
ciples, but  as  means  or  instruments  for  things 
supernatural. 


2l6 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


7.  This  mortification  of  the  heart — which  is  the 
rule  of  the  interior  life,  and  the  spirit  of  the 
Saints — is  that  more  useful  and  necessary  mortifi- 
cation, whereby  the  roots  of  vices  are  plucked  up, 
the  dangers  of  temptations  avoided,  the  very  causes 
of  inward  troubles  removed. 

This  holy  mortification  is  to  be  practiced,  not 
with  fretfulness,  harshness  or  anxiety,  but  with  a 
tranquil  and  generous  heart. 

Now,  My  Child,  in  thy  heart  there  are  things  so 
great  and  numerous  to  be  mortified,  and  they  lie  so 
hidden  from  thee,  that,  unless  enlightened  by  grace, 
thou  couldst  not  so  much  as  see  them;  and  when 
thou  seest  them,  unless  strengthened  by  grace,  thou 
mightst  be  overpowered  by  the  sight  of  them. 

Wherefore,  thou  must  have  recourse  to  prayer 
without  intermission,  that  thou  mayst  obtain  light 
and  strength  from  above. 

Then  will  I — knowing  that,  as  yet,  thou  art  un- 
able to  bear  the  knowledge  of  all  the  imperfections  of 
thy  heart — so  gently  order  things,  that  thou  mayst 
know  and  overcome  them  by  degrees,  since  I will 
proportion  the  grace  of  strength  to  the  grace  of 
light. 

And  thou,  My  Child,  must  unremittingly  be  on 
thy  guard,  lest  thou  shut  thy  eyes  to  this  light  sent 
from  above,  or  neglect  to  co-operate  with  this 
heaven-given  strength.  For  this  might  be  the  be- 
ginning of  thy  downfall. 

Be  faithful:  allow  thyself  to  be  led  by  grace  in 
all  and  to  all;  and  thou  wilt  experience  such  things 
as  the  Saints  have  experienced,  whereby  thou  wilt 
doubtless  come  to  My  Heart,  and  God  shall  be  ex- 
alted, and  thou  shalt  be  made  holy;  the  more  per- 


CHAPTER  X. 


217 


fectly,  the  more  closely  thou  shalt  become  assimi- 
lated to  My  Heart. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  kind  and 
sweet  Jesus!  how  great  is  the  goodness  of  Thy 
Heart!  Even  to  me  unworthy,  Thou  hast  made 
known  the  way  of  the  interior  life,  wherein  all  the 
Saints  walk  with  Thee. 

Behold!  my  heart  is  ready  to  follow  Thee  in 
this  holy  way:  guide  me  in  truth,  and  teach  me  to 
do  Thy  good  pleasure. 

Too  long  have  I followed  the  motion  of  nature: 
too  long  have  I acted  by  natural  propensity  or 
aversion:  I have  led  altogether  too  much  of  a 
natural  life. 

Grant  me,  I beseech  Thee,  Lord,  to  live  hence- 
forth by  grace;  to  follow  Thy  Spirit  in  whatever  I 
may  have  to  do  or  suffer. 

Grant  that  my  heart,  created  by  Thee,  ransomed 
by  the  price  of  the  Blood  of  Thy  Heart,  endowed 
by  Thee,  at  its  every  pulsation,  with  new  favors — 
may  at  last,  disengaged  from  creatures,  soar  to  Thee, 
live  for  Thee  alone,  love  Thee  alone  above  all  else. 


CHAPTER  X. 

THAT,  AETER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 
HEART  OF  JESUS,  ADORED  BY  THE  MAGI,  WE 
SHOULD  OVERCOME  ALL  HUMAN  RESPECT. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold!  My  Child,  the 
Magi  had  come  from  the  East:  and,  entering  the 
Cave,  they  found  Me,  an  Infant,  with  Mary,  My 
Virgin  Mother. 

Observe  My  Heart,  and  imitate  Its  disposition. 


2l8 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Such  as  It  was  in  the  presence  of  My  own,  such  It 
is  before  strangers;  as  It  was  before  shepherds  of 
the  lowest  estate,  so  It  is  before  Magi  of  the  high- 
est rank:  I was  not  ashamed  of  the  lowliness  of 
My  Birth,  the  obscurity  of  My  condition,  the  prac- 
tice of  every  virtue. 

In  this,  My  Heart  does  not  regard  the  judgments 
of  men,  but,  setting  aside  human  respect,  It  pursues 
the  things  that  please  My  Father. 

2.  Happy  he,  that  imitates  this  fortitude  of  My 
Heart;  that,  with  his  heart  undaunted,  overcomes 
human  respect! 

For  as  My  heavenly  Father  confessed  Me,  be- 
cause I confessed  Him;  so,  whosoever  shall  con- 
fess Me  before  men,  him  also  will  I confess  before 
My  Father. 

But  woe  to  him,  that  shall  be  ashamed  before 
men  of  Me,  of  My  teaching,  of  My  example!  of 
him  will  I also  be  ashamed  before  My  Father,  the 
Angels,  and  men  themselves,  when  I shall  come  in 
Majesty  to  judge. 

3.  What  fearest  thou,  O man?  Does  not  reason 
itself  tell  thee,  that  honor  is  due  to  virtue,  dishonor 
to  vice?  why  then  dost  thou  dread  to  practice  vir- 
tue, as  if  thou  thoughtest  it  a disgrace? 

Behold!  beside  God,  none  witness  thy  actions 
except  Angels  and  men.  Now,  pray  then,  which 
of  these  shouldst  thou  mind  ? 

The  good  Angels — if  thou  boldly  avowest  thy- 
self My  servant — will  joyfully  extol  thy  greatness 
of  soul,  and  pray  for  the  continuance  of  thy  forti- 
tude. And  men,  as  well  as  the  Saints  in  heaven,  as 
the  wise  and  good  upon  earth,  feeling  similarly  dis- 
posed in  thy  regard,  will  act  in  like  manner. 


CHAPTER  X. 


219 


Yea,  the  reprobate  angels,  and  foolish  and  wicked 
men,  will  admire  thee,  at  least  inwardly,  in  spite 
of  themselves,  although  outwardly  they  speak 
against  thee,  to  hide  their  own  faint-heartedness 
and  cowardice.  Oughtest  thou  to  heed  the  false 
judgments  and  idle  talk  of  these?  Wouldst  thou 
be  reckoned  among  these,  and  become  a partaker 
of  their  lot  ? 

Were  all  men  to  talk  about  thee,  wouldst  thou 
be  different  from  what  thou  art?  Thou  art  just 
what  thou  art  before  Me,  My  Child;  nor  can  the 
tongues  of  all  creatures  make  thee  greater  or 
smaller. 

4.  Who  is  he  that  can  be  pleasing  to  all?  None; 
neither  could  I Myself  obtain  this.  Do  not,  then, 
attempt  what  is  impossible. 

Strive  to  please  Me,  as  much  as  thou  art  able; 
and,  in  this  holy  endeavor,  care  not  for  what  the 
world  may  think  concerning  thee. 

If  thou  art  still  guided  by  a regard  for  men;  it 
is  plain  that  thou  hast  not  yet  learnt  humility  and 
charity  of  My  Heart. 

Whosoever  is  humble  of  heart,  and  impelled  by 
divine  love,  desires  not  to  please  men;  nor  fears 
he  to  displease  them,  when  he  cannot  otherwise 
satisfy  Me. 

Neither  stands  he  in  dread  of  the  judgments 
and  scoffs  of  the  world,  but  he  keeps  his  counte- 
nance, and  goes  his  way;  and,  if  My  honor  requires 
it,  he  utters  his  opinion  with  a holy  freedom. 

He  does  nothing  that  he  may  be  seen,  he  omits 
nothing  through  fear  of  being  seen:  he  cares  naught 
whether  he  be  praised  or  blamed  by  a foolish  world; 
whether  he  be  esteemed  much  or  little. 


220 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


The  world  is  for  him,  as  if  it  were  not:  Me  alone 
he  has  in  view,  since  he  knows  that  to  Me  every- 
thing is  due;  to  Me  he  loves  to  refer  all,  by  whom 
alone  he  can  and  will  be  approved  and  rewarded  as 
he  deserves. 

But  it  is  no  wonder,  that  whosoever  gratifies 
pride  and  self-love,  becomes  the  slave  of  human 
respect. 

For  surely  none  is  more  a slave,  than  he  that  is 
swayed  by  human  respect;  since  he  has  as  many 
masters,  as  he  sees  men. 

Meanwhile  such  a one  will  do  nothing  wrorthy  of 
Me — worthy  of  his  own  perfection. 

5.  My  Child,  wheresoever  thou  mayst  be,  whether 
living  in  the  world,  or  secluded  from  the  wrorld,  be- 
ware of  human  respect.  This  vice  is  met  every- 
where, not  only  among  people  of  the  world,  but 
even  among  religious:  from  the  wrorld  it  enters  into 
the  sanctuary,  and  there  it  stands  an  abomination 
in  the  Holy  of  Holies. 

Many,  deceiving  themselves,  under  the  semblance 
of  charity  or  prudence,  yield  to  human  respect: 
and  were  they  to  look  properly  into  themselves,  they 
weuld  discover,  that  it  is  not  the  virtue  of  charity 
or  prudence,  but  the  vail  of  timid  pride  and  self- 
love. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yet,  Lord,  is  it  proper 
always  and  everywhere,  publicly  to  proclaim  virtue, 
and  to  profess  it  openly?  If  so,  I pray  Thee,  how 
is  this  to  be  done?  if  not,  what  rule  should  be  fol- 
lowed ? 

The  voice  of  Jesus . — Sometimes,  My  Child,  it  is 
not  expedient  rashly  to  expose  piety;  but  never, 
and  nowhere  is  it  allowed  to  betray  piety. 


CHAPTER  X. 


221 


In  the  practice  of  virtue,  it  is  a sure  and  safe 
rule,  to  consider  not  one’s  own,  but  the  divine 
honor;  not  to  neglect  the  open  profession  of  vir- 
tue, simply  to  avoid  thy  own  confusion;  but  to 
omit  its  open  profession,  when  My  honor  or  glory 
might  suffer  in  consequence. 

6.  In  general,  My  Child,  in  whatever  place  thou 
mayst  be,  if,  inasmuch  as  this  rule  allows,  thou 
beginnest  at  once  openly  to  practice  virtue,  it  will 
not  only  give  Me  great  honor,  but  also  prove  very 
advantageous  to  thyself.  For  thus  the  good  and 
the  wicked,  as  well  as  the  fervent  and  the  luke- 
warm, shall  know  thee;  the  first  will  seek  thy  com- 
pany, and  sustain  thee:  the  last  will  let  thee  alone, 
and  not  ensnare  thee. 

If  any  there  be  who  do  find  fault  with  thy  con- 
scientiously free  and  noble-souled  deportment,  be 
not,  therefore,  troubled  or  cast  down;  but  call  to 
mind,  that  if,  to  the  injury  of  thy  conscience,  thou 
didst  still  seek  to  please  men,  thou  shouldst  not  be 
the  servant  of  God,  nor  a Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

Besides,  what  would  it  avail,  to  be  blamed  by 
none,  and  to  be  pleasing  to  all  ? Couldst  thou  in  the 
end  be  defended  by  mortal  man,  when  I will  be  thy 
Judge?  or  couldst  thou  be  saved,  whilst  I condemn 
thee? 

What  will  be  the  feelings,  after  death,  before  Me, 
their  Judge,  of  those  cowardly  souls,  that,  through 
human  respect,  placed  during  life  the  opinions  of  a 
foolish  world  before  My  judgments,  and  betrayed 
My  cause  ? 

Alas!  how  many  reprobates  has  human  respect 
made,  whose  lot,  had  they  spurned  it,  should  now 
be  among  the  Saints  1 


222 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


7.  Believe  me,  Child,  it  is  every  way  better  to 
regard  My  judgments,  rather  than  those  of  men: 
if  thou  art  pleasing  to  Me,  that  is  enough  for  thee; 
to  please  men  alone,  is  simple  vanity,  mere  mockery. 

Cheer  up  thy  courage,  My  Child,  look  down  upon 
the  false  sayings  of  men,  that  fly  through  the  air, 
and  only  reach  those  who  grasp  them  for  them- 
selves. 

If  thou  dost  once  fully  learn  to  raise  thysek 
above  every  human  respect,  thou  wilt  hardly  be 
again  annoyed  by  it,  and,  thyself  consistent,  thou 
wilt  pity  the  madness  of  the  world,  and  the  silliness 
of  men,  who  suffer  themselves,  in  so  slavish  a man- 
ner, to  be  dragged  to  destruction. 

And  when  thou  hast  come  to  this,  that  thou  art 
no  longer  moved  by  any  human  respect,  then,  freed 
from  a very  great  hindrance  to  salvation  and  per- 
fection, thou  shalt  safely  advance  in  the  way  of 
virtue. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — How  true,  how  holy 
a doctrine  Thou  teachest,  good  Master,  sweet 
Jesus!  Help  me,  I entreat  Thee,  to  reduce  it  to 
practice. 

I am  justly  ashamed,  Lord,  of  my  past  cowardice, 
my  faint-heartedness.  Often  did  I blush  or  fear 
to  do  what  my  heart  approved  as  good  and  worthy 
of  honor:  on  the  other  hand,  I did  not  blush  to 
give  way  to  human  respect,  which  it  acknowledged 
to  be  evil  and  unbecoming. 

From  a base  fear  of  men’s  opinions,  I have  fre- 
quently betrayed  Thy  interests  and  Thy  holy  ser- 
vice, and  thus  rendered  myself  deserving  of  great 
shame  and  punishment. 

Have  mercy  on  me,  my  God,  and  forgive  my 


CHAPTER  XI. 


223 


offenses,  whereby,  through  human  respect,  I have 
turned  away  from  Thy  Will,  and  chosen  rather, 
despite  my  conscience,  to  follow  the  opinion  of  the 
world. 

But  now,  mercifully  recalled  and  taught  by  Thee, 
behold  i I am  resolved  to  follow  Thee,  the  sole 
guide  to  eternal  blessedness. 

Let  worldlings  continue  to  call  good,  evil,  and 
evil,  good:  let  them  still  estimate  honor  by  the 
changeable  and  worthless  opinion  of  deluded  men: 
let  them  still  feed  on  vanity;  from  Thee  I know, 
and  hold  with  certainty,  that  to  cleave  to  Thee,  is 
unchangeably  good;  that  to  follow  Thee,  is  truly 
honorable;  that  to  enjoy  Thee,  most  sweet  Jesus, 
the  fountain  of  life  and  of  all  good  things,  does 
really  constitute  bliss. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

THAT  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  PRE- 
SENTED IN  THE  TEMPLE,  WE  SHOULD  LEARN  TO 
HAVE,  IN  ALL  THINGS,  A RIGHT  INTENTION. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  when  the  days 
were  accomplished,  that  they  should  present  Me  to 
the  Lord,  I offered  Myself  and  all  I had,  to  My 
heavenly  Father,  with  a pure  desire  of  pleasing 
Him. 

Although,  at  My  Incarnation,  I had  forever  con- 
secrated  Myself  and  My  whole  life  to  My  Father 
yet,  I never  omitted  to  dedicate  to  Him  every  par- 


224 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


ticular  action  of  My  life,  and  keep  in  view  His  good 
pleasure. 

But,  since  a good  intention  is  a matter  of  such 
importance  in  the  interior  life,  that  no  one  can  be 
a true  Disciple  of  My  Heart  without  it,  My  Heart 
did  not  cease  to  show,  teach,  inculcate  this  by  Its 
example. 

Look  at  My  life  from  its  beginning  unto  the 
end:  did  My  Heart  anywhere  please  Itself?  did  It 
seek  the  glory  of  the  world  ? 

In  all  My  life,  Child,  can  be  found  no  act  arising 
from  the  mere  impulse  of  human  nature,  none  from 
mere  custom,  none  from  mere  necessity,  none, 
finally,  whether  great  or  small,  which  did  not  spring 
from  the  motive  of  fulfilling  the  divine  Will,  of 
pleasing  the  divine  Majesty. 

2.  How  happy  he  that  has  put  on  this  sentiment 
of  My  Heart  I he  is  ever  useful  to  himself,  ever 
dear  to  Me,  his  Saviour-God. 

What  is  that  which  is  acceptable  to  Me?  the 
inward  affection,  rather  than  the  outward  act;  the 
intentions  of  the  heart,  rather  than  the  fulfillment 
of  the  work.  What  do  I reward  forever?  the  fruit 
of  grace,  whereby  thou  art  moved  to  act,  and  where- 
with thou  co-operatest,  not  the  effect  of  nature — 
whereby  thou  art  stirred  up,  or  which  thou  fol- 
io west. 

My  grace  moves  the  Will  to  do  whatsoever  things 
are  by  Me  directly  or  indirectly  commanded  or  de- 
sired. These  I wish  to  be  so  done,  that  they  be 
supernaturally  good  and  meritorious:  wherefore,  to 
do  them,  I give  an  actual  grace,  without  which 
they  could  not  be  supernaturally  good  and  merito- 
rious. If,  then,  thou  art  induced  to  act  by  My  Will 


CHAPTER  XI. 


225 


or  good  pleasure,  know,  that  thou  art  moved  by- 
grace,  a supernatural  principle. 

But  the  end  or  intention  of  thy  will  forms  the 
species  of  the  act.  Such  as  is  thy  intention,  such 
will  be  the  act  that  follows. 

If  thou  hast  a right  intention,  thou  wilt,  before 
and  above  all,  intend  and  seek  My  good  pleasure, 
Me — thy  end  and  supreme  Good. 

It  sometimes  happens,  that  the  primary  inten- 
tion of  an  action  is  right,  but  that  a wrong 
secondary  intention  creeps  in.  When  this  occurs, 
the  goodness  of  the  action  indeed  is  not  wholly 
destroyed,  but  is  lessened  in  part:  and  the  actor 
becomes  guilty  of  so  much,  as  there  has  been  of  ill- 
regulated  or  evil  will,  in  the  vitiated  intention. 

Behold!  My  Child,  I am  Alpha  and  Omega,  the 
beginning  and  the  end:  therefore,  all  things  must 
be  derived  from  Me — be  referred  to  Me. 

If,  then,  thou  wouldst  be  blamed,  when  thou 
dost  not  reter  them  to  Me;  how  much  more  so,  if 
thou  turnest  them  aside  to  thyself,  or  to  My  enemy, 
the  world? 

3.  A precious  thing,  a wonderful  virtue,  My 
Child,  is  a right  intention,  whereby  actions,  al- 
though natural  and  indifferent  in  themselves,  when 
done  by  means  of  grace,  become  supernatural  and 
meritorious.  A marvellous  secret,  whereby  lead, 
and  brass,  and  other  metals,  are  changed  into  pure 
gold. 

Beware,  however,  lest  thou  fall  into  that  quite 
common  delusion  which  makes  men  fancy  that,  by 
substituting  a good  intention,  they  can  render 
meritorious  a work  or  action  undertaken,  not  by 
grace,  or  by  My  Will,  but  from  the  sole  motive  of 


226 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


nature,  aversion  or  inclination,  or  from  self-will 
alone. 

Follow  thou,  with  a right  aim,  everything  begun 
according  to  My  good  pleasure. 

Of  what  avail  is  a work,  how  great  or  praise- 
worthy soever  it  may  outwardly  appear,  to  him  that 
does  it  without  a right  intention  ? 

On  the  other  hand,  that  which  is  done  with  a 
pure  intention,  how  little  and  lowly  soever  it  may 
seem,  becomes  excellent,  and  altogether  beneficial. 

4.  Would  that  men  knew  and  practiced  this  art 
of  acting  rightly  1 how  easily  could  they  merit  a 
bright  crown  in  heaven! 

There  are  those  who  work  much  and  gain  little; 
who  busy  themselves  about  everything;  who  attempt 
many  and  ^rious  things,  but,  in  the  end,  find 
themselves  with  almost  empty  hands;  because,  like 
irrational  creatures,  they  act  without  an  end,  or 
pursue  an  end  ill-ordered  and  unworthy. 

How  many  there  are,  who  exchange  the  fruit  of 
their  labors  for  an  empty  breath  of  praise  or  ad- 
miration; wherewith  they  ever  long  to  feed  their 
weary  and  hungry  heart! 

Behold!  how  many  there  are,  who  make  so  much 
of  the  smoke  of  vain  glory,  that  they  buy  it  at  a 
price  by  which  they  might  purchase  for  themselves 
the  kingdom  of  endless  glory. 

Is  there  not  an  endless  number  of  such  madmen? 
Take  heed,  My  Child,  lest  thou  be  reckoned  among 
them. 

There  are  others  who  appear  to  be  doing  little, 
and  yet  deserve  to  become  very  holy;  these  are 
they  who  think,  that  he  does  enough,  who  does  the 
Will  of  God. 


CHAPTER  XI. 


227 


5.  My  Child,  when  thou  devotest  thyself  to  Me 
in  exercises  of  piety,  thou  must  place,  even  above 
these  practices  themselves,  the  intention  of  doing 
My  good  pleasure.  Thus,  whether  thou  feelest 
consolation  or  desolation,  thou  shalt  remain  calm, 
gather  certain  fruit,  and  honor  Me. 

If  thou  art  engaged  in  works  of  duty  or  charity 
toward  thy  neighbor,  let  Me  be  the  end  of  those 
works;  for  thus  it  will  happen,  that  thou  shalt 
never  fail  of  thy  reward,  and  that  thou  shalt  lose 
nothing  of  thy  peace— whether  thy  neighbor  be 
or  be  not  improved. 

If  thou  hast  in  view  no  other  object  except  My  sole 
good  pleasure,  thou  shalt  be  contented  and  happy 
in  every  event;  because  thou  knowest  that  I do  not 
demand  of  thee,  and  will  not  crown  in  thee,  aught 
save  only  thy  good  efficacious  will;  and  that  suc- 
cess depends  upon  Me,  who  order  all  things  ac- 
cording to  infinite  Wisdom. 

By  means  of  a pure  intention,  thou  art  enabled 
to  remain  undisturbed  and  tranquil  amid  hardships, 
distresses,  yea  amid  temptations  themselves;  for, 
since  purity  of  intention  raises  thee  before  Me  above 
sensible  things,  thou  needest  not  to  be  annoyed  by 
what  thou  feelest  against  thy  will. 

Finally,  My  Child,  whether  thou  art  in  action  or 
at  rest,  whether  thou  laborest  or  divertest  thyself, 
whether  thou  art  watching  or  sleeping,  whether 
thou  eatest  or  drinkest;  whether,  in  short,  thou  art 
doing  aught  else,  do  all  things,  to  follow  My  good 
pleasure,  to  be  acceptable  to  Me;  and,  behold l a 
great  and  ever-increasing  amount  of  merits  will  ac- 
crue to  thee. 

6.  In  the  morning,  thou  must  daily  make  a gene- 


228 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


ral  intention,  whereby  everything  to  be  done  or 
suffered  during  that  day,  is  directed  to  this  last 
end,  that,  for  love  of  Me,  thou  mayst  accomplish 
My  Will,  and  thus  please  Me.  This  good,  this 
holy  intention,  will  give  life  to  all  things  that  fol- 
low. and  will  virtually  continue  to  add  vigor  to 
them. 

It  is  also  of  the  greatest  importance  to  renew, 
during  the  day,  thy  good  intention  before  every 
action;  nay  more,  when  it  can  be  done  conveniently, 
to  renew  the  same  during  the  action. 

But  to  do  all  things  with  a right  end,  it  will  be 
of  very  great  help,  to  foresee  occasions  of  meriting, 
dangers  of  losing — virtues  to  be  practiced,  snares  of 
pride  and  self-love  to  be  avoided. 

One  and  the  same  action  may  be  directed  to  sev- 
eral and  different  proximate  ends,  which,  directly 
or  indirectly,  tend  to  the  salvation  of  thy  own  soul, 
or  of  thy  neighbor,  or  to  My  honor.  Whence  thou 
mayst  acquire  a great  treasure  of  merits,  of  which 
they,  who  act  with  no  aim  of  this  kind,  are  de- 
prived. 

Moreover,  every  action  may  be  made  up  of  sev- 
eral virtues:  as  thou  practicest  as  many  virtues  as 
thou  intendest,  and  as  to  every  act  of  virtue  cor- 
responds a new  degree  of  present  grace  and  future 
glory,  it  is  easy  to  see  how  important  a matter  is 
this  holy  intention. 

But,  My  Child,  thou  must  take  care  that  these 
things  be  not  done  with  anxiety,  with  injury  to  in- 
ward freedom,  or  with  the  loss  of  peace:  for,  so  far 
from  being  useful,  they  would,  on  the  contrary,  be 
hurtful. 

Remember,  lastly,  that,  inspired  by  the  spirit  of 


CHAPTER  XI. 


229 


] the  same  intention  that  animated  Me,  thou  ought- 
2 est  to  unite  all  thy  actions  and  sufferings  with  Mine, 
j if,  as  a Disciple  of  My  Heart,  thou  art  desirous  of 
| acting  in  a manner  worthy  of  so  high  a vocation. 

7.  My  Child,  vain  self-love  is  so  subtle  that  it 
| can  easily  assume  any  shape,  and  thrust  itself  into 
|j  all  things. 

Whence  it  will  happen,  that,  unless  thou  be  cau- 
tious, thou  mayst  be  animated  and  led  by  that  spirit 
of  self,  rather  than  by  My  own.  Nor  does  human 
light  or  prudence  suffice  to  distinguish  this,  since 
neither  can,  of  itself,  discern  things  supernatural; 
but  a light  from  above,  and  the  divine  assistance 
are  needed. 

Wherefore,  thou  must  pray  without  ceasing,  that 
thou  mayst  be  enlightened  from  heaven;  and  beg 
fervently  that  thou  mayst  be  helped  by  grace, 
whereby  thou  art  enabled  to  tend,  rightly  and 
singly,  above  all  things  to  Me. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — I pray  and  be- 
seech Thee,  Lord  Jesus,  Author  of  all  good,  give 
Thou  light  to  my  mind,  love  to  my  heart,  strength 
to  my  whole  being,  that  I may  ever  rightly  accom- 
plish what  is  pleasing  to  Thee. 

Grant  me  true  earnestness,  a holy  intention,  that, 
in  all  things,  I may  do  Thy  good  pleasure,  with- 
out turning  to  the  right  or  to  the  left. 

Suffer  not  that,  henceforth,  I be  so  foolish  as  to 
lose  the  merit  of  my  actions,  for  the  sake  of  grasp- 
ing an  airy  phantom;  nor  so  undutiful  as  to  snatch 
away  the  glory  which  belongs  to  Thee! 

Pour  into  my  heart,  I implore  Thee,  the  purity 
of  Thy  Heart,  that  I may,  above  all  else,  direct  my 
thoughts  to  Thee,  find  Thee,  and  repose  in  Thee 


230 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


my  God,  my  beginning  and  my  end,  the  centre  and 
rest  of  my  soul. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

OF  THE  FREEDOM  OF  HEART,  WHICH  THE  MOST 

SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  HIS  FLIGHT  INTO 

EGYPT,  TEACHES  US. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold,  My  Child,  king 
Herod  sought  Me,  a Child,  that  he  might  put  Me 
to  death.  But  Joseph,  warned  by  an  Angel,  took 
Me  and  My  Mother,  by  night,  and  retired  into 
Egypt. 

The  unseasonable  hour  of  the  night,  My  tender 
age,  the  condition  of  My  parents,  the  abandoning 
of  My  native  land,  the  dwelling  in  a foreign  coun- 
try, the  tarrying  among  infidels,  whose  manners 
were  contrary  to  Mine,  the  poverty  and  obscureness 
of  My  life,  drudgery  and  hardship,  everything  in 
fine,  was  suited  to  render  the  heart  cheerless. 

Yet,  amid  all  this,  My  Heart  remained  so  free, 
that  neither  time,  nor  place,  nor  men,  nor  any  cre- 
ated objects  whatsoever  could  render  It  captive. 

2.  My  Child,  strive,  by  every  means  in  thy  power, 
to  imitate  this  holy  freedom  of  My  Heart. 

My  Heart,  elevated  above  the  reach  of  all  else, 
was  restrained  by  the  good  pleasure  of  My  Father 
alone.  So  also  should  thy  heart,  raised  above  ah 
created  objects,  be  held  by  the  divine  Will  alone. 

The  greatest  freedom  to  which  the  heart  of  mar 


CHAPTER  XII. 


231 


can  aspire  is  this,  to  be  dependent  upon  no  one,  ex- 
cept its  God. 

This  is  that  true,  that  perfect  liberty,  whereby 
man  is  nobly  exalted,  and  elevated  above  his  very 
Superiors,  through  whom,  as  the  organs  of  God,  he 
is  pleased  to  have  My  Will  made  known. 

Whosoever  possesses  this  freedom  is  raised  above 
every  created  power,  above  all  the  whims  and  fickle- 
ness of  men — above  all  the  casual  events  of  times, 
places,  and  circumstances;  in  so  much,  that,  unless 
he  betray  himself,  he  can  be  enslaved  by  no  created 
object. 

But  none  can  gain  this  privilege,  unless  he  wholly 
devote  to  Me  his  heart,  disengaged  from  every  crea- 
ture. 

For,  so  long  as  thou  inordinately  desirest  or  fear- 
est  aught,  so  long  will  thy  heart  be  fettered  and 
embarrassed. 

Thy  heart  will  be  a slave,  so  long  as  it  follows 
its  natural  inclination  in  either  direction,  or  seeks 
in  anything,  even  in  what  is  good,  itself  as  its  end. 

There  are  those  who,  released  from  sin  and  the 
world,  endeavor  to  be  also  released  from  themselves, 
that  they  may  freely  live  for  Me:  who  yet  sigh  in 
My  service,  as  under  a heavy  yoke;  because  they 
suffer  themselves  to  be  insnared  by  a delusion, 
whereby  they  fancy  Me  a troublesome  ruler,  or  a 
harsh  master,  ever  bent  on  discovering  something 
to  punish. 

These,  assuredly,  do  Me  great  injustice,  deter 
their  neighbors  from  My  service,  and  render  them 
selves  wretched  to  no  purpose. 

3.  Am  I not  a Father?  Where  is  there  a father’s 
heart  like  Mine?  who  then  is  so  much  a father,  a/ 


232  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

I am?  A Father  infinitely  wise,  who  knows  every, 
thing — what  is  useful,  what  is  hurtful  to  My  chil- 
dren: infinitely  powerful,  against  whcse  Will  no 
enemies,  whether  visible  or  invisible,  can  do  the 
least  harm  to  My  children:  infinitely  good,  who 
love  My  children  with  a Heart  burning  with  a 
divine  love,  and  long  to  turn  all  things,  evil  as  well 
as  good,  to  their  advantage. 

Wherefore,  show  in  My  service  that  thou  art  the 
worthy  child  of  such  a Father:  and  do  not,  by  a 
most  unseemly  crime,  conduct  thyself  as  the  servant 
of  an  overbearing  master. 

Do  but  keep  the  good  will,  cf  shunning  whatso- 
ever thou  knowest  is  displeasing,  and  of  doing  what 
soever  thou  understandest  is  agreeable  to  Me:  and 
then  expand  thy  heart — not,  indeed,  to  the  false 
freedom,  the  hard  yoke  of  the  children  of  the  world, 
but  to  the  true  freedom,  the  sweet  privilege  of  the 
children  of  Mv  Heart. 

4.  This  do  I love,  that  My  children  enjoy  a holy 
freedom;  and  I consider  Myself  greatly  honored 
thereby. 

Use,  therefore,  a becoming  diligence  to  please 
Me,  and  be  not  anxious  to  know,  whether  in  reality 
thou  art  pleasing  to  Me:  but,  setting  aside  all  sub- 
tlety of  the  understanding,  and  all  uneasiness  of  the 
will,  throw  thyself  with  confidence  on  My  Heart. 
It  cannot  be  otherwise  than  that,  so  far  from  being 
offended,  I will  rather  be  delighted  with  this  free- 
dom of  heart,  inspired  by  a pure  and  generous  love. 

Under  My  guidance,  under  My  protection,  under 
My  divine  care,  be  thou  free  from  all  inordinate- 
ness; neither  do  thou  excessively  fear  hell,  the 
world,  nor  thyself.  For  although,  of  thyself,  thou 


CHAPTER  XII. 


233 


art  able  to  do  nothing,  thou  canst  do  much  in  Me, 
in  whom  thou  believest,  in  whom  thou  hopest, 
whom  thou  lovest. 

If,  at  any  time  thou  fallest  into  faults,  do  not 
conduct  thyself  like  a menial  servant,  who,  full  of 
alarm,  stands  in  dread  of  stripes,  and  is  desirous 
either  of  running  away,  or  of  cowardly  hiding  him- 
self: but  act  like  a child  that  loves  his  father,  and 
forthwith  endeavors  to  make  up  for  his  guilt — 
who  runs  to  his  father,  with  so  much  the  more  free- 
dom, the  greater  the  goodness  which  he  knows  him 
to  possess. 

As  often,  therefore,  as  thou  sadly  fallest,  do  thou 
return  to  Me  in  a child-like  manner — ask  forgive- 
ness, and  renew  thy  resolve  of  being  faithful:  nor 
suffer  thou  the  peace  of  thy  heart  to  be  disturbed, 
or  thy  freedom  lessened. 

5.  Neither  should  the  means  of  perfection  fetter 
thy  heart;  for  even  these,  if  they  took  away  the 
holy  freedom  of  thy  heart,  would  be  obstacles  rather 
than  means. 

Wherefore,  so  soon  as  I make  known  to  thee  My 
Will,  thou  must  freely  overlook  everything  else, 
and  be  solely  dependent  on  My  bidding. 

Take  heed,  however,  My  Child,  lest,  under  pre- 
tense of  a holy  freedom,  thou  indulge  the  fickleness 
of  the  heart — as  they  do  who  allow  themselves  to 
be  guided  by  feeling,  not  by  principle. 

To  them,  that  which  a little  before  was  pleasing, 
now  becomes  irksome:  in  the  glow  of  fervor,  they 
assume  spiritual  practices,  and  soon  afterwards  leave 
them  off  again,  or  perform  them  with  distaste;  they 
live  now  in  one  way,  and,  in  a short  time,  wearied 
therewith,  they  try  another;  now,  they  mortify 


234 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


themselves  severely*,  as  if  they  were  wholly  spirit- 
ual; and,  soon  again,  having  become  really  sensual, 
they  flatter  nature. 

This,  surely,  is  not  to  be  a child  of  freedom,  but 
the  sport  of  fickleness,  the  slave  of  feeling. 

6.  My  Child,  be  thou  more  steadfast  in  regard  to 
thy  freedom.  If  thou  art  busied  with  any  employ- 
ments, do  not  give  thyself  up  to  them — merely  lend 
thyself  to  them — lest,  instead  of  thyself  being  their 
master,  they  perchance  rule  thee. 

As  often  as  thou  feelest  thyself  impelled  by  na- 
ture, either  to  undertake  or  to  perform  something, 
do  thou  forthwith  check  thy  ardor:  otherwise  thou 
shalt  soon  perceive  that  thy  heart  is  being  fettered, 
and  that  the  matter  itself  is  less  rightly  done. 

Let  no  place  on  earth  hold  thy  heart  bound  to 
itself:  keep  it  free  everywhere,  knowing  that  I, 
thy  God,  am  found  in  all  places;  that  My  children 
are  everywhere  cherished  by  My  Spirit;  finally, 
that  where  My  Spirit  is,  there  is  true  freedom. 

Wherever,  therefore,  thou  mayst  be,  be  master 
of  thyself:  in  all  things  whatsoever,  whether  inter- 
nal or  external,  whether  spiritual  or  temporal, 
whether  lofty  or  lowly,  keep  thy  heart  free,  united 
above  everything  with  the  divine  Will. 

7.  My  Child,  thou  shouldst  so  cherish  and  guard 
the  freedom  of  thy  heart,  that  no  one — neither  thy 
inferior,  nor  an  equal,  nor  even  thy  Superior — can 
take  it  away. 

Wherefore,  thou  oughtest  to  judge  of  nothing, 
nor  strive  after  it,  according  to  the  semblance  of 
things,  the  opinion  of  men,  or  thy  own  feeling.  In 
all  things,  let  the  standard  of  thy  judgment  be  the 
truth,  which  thou  wilt  find,  by  examining  how  My 


CHAPTER  XII. 


235 


Heart  has  judged  them:  and  let  My  Will  be  the 
rule  of  thy  desiring.  This  truth  will  free  thee,  and 
thou  shalt  be  free  indeed:  this  divine  Will  shall 
guide  thee,  and  keep  thee  free. 

The  more  glorious  this  holy  freedom  of  heart  is 
to  Me — the  more  useful  to  thyself  and  to  thy 
neighbor — with  the  more  care  is  it  to  be  fostered, 
the  more  resolutely  is  it  to  be  defended  against  thy 
foes. 

Beside  the  demon  and  the  world,  nature  will  also 
frequently  rise  up  against  it.  Pride,  with  many 
reasonings,  and  self-love,  in  various  ways,  will  prey 
upon  it,  to  cause  it  to  yield,  at  least  in  some  or 
other  matter. 

But  thou  wilt  frustrate  and  overcome  the  assaults 
and  stratagems  of  thy  enemies,  if  thou  goest  boldly 
counter  to  what  these  foes  suggest,  and  if  thou  sim- 
ply followest  My  Will. 

Whosoever  wills  everything  according  to  My 
divine  good  pleasure — whosoever  lives  by  this,  and 
seeks  his  happiness  therein — enjoys  a true  and 
holy  freedom,  which  I desire  every  Disciple  of  My 
Heart  to  possess,  and  which  neither  hell,  nor  the 
world,  nor  any  creature,  can  take  away. 

8.  The  voice  0)  the  Disciple . — Holy  freedom! 
how  sweet  a name!  but  sweeter  far  its  possession: 
most  sweet  its  fruit.  Would,  O good  Jesus,  that 
I might  enjoy  it! 

But  alas,  wretched  me!  of  how  many  things  am 
I still  the  slave!  blushing  with  shame,  I confess  to 
Thee,  O Lord,  that  my  heart  is  full  often  captivated 
and  held  by  various  things,  yea,  the  most  trifling 
or  imaginary. 

Give  me,  I < entreat  Thee,  give  me  light  to  know 


236 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


and  strength  to  burst  asunder  all  my  chains,  that  at 
last  I may  be  free  in  truth  and  holiness. 

Mercifully  grant,  most  benign  Jesus,  that,  to 
preserve  holy  freedom  of  heart,  I may  stand  with  a 
heart  firm  and  undaunted,  amid  all  the  temptations 
of  hell;  that  I be  unconquered  and  unshaken  by 
the  good  and  evil  things,  the  sayings  and  doings  of 
the  world;  that,  above  all  which  is  of  self,  I may 
repose  and  persevere  in  Thy  most  holy,  most  de- 
lightful good  pleasure. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  GOING 
UP  INTO  THE  TEMPLE,  TEACHES  US  TO  PRAY. 

i.  The  voice  0}  Jesus . — Attend,  My  Child,  and 
see  how  solicitous  My  Heart  was,  that,  in  public 
as  well  as  in  private,  It  might  teach,  by  example, 
the  ways  of  salvation  and  perfection. 

From  My  Childhood,  I was  wont,  not  only  fre- 
quently to  pra)r  alone,  but  also  to  go  up  to  Jeru- 
salem, and  to  pray  publicly  in  the  Temple,  and  this 
according  to  custom. 

My  Child,  what  was  My  whole  life,  if  not  a 
prayer,  from  which  My  Heart  never  ceased,  with 
which  It  was  always  and  everywhere  occupied  ? 

Where  did  Mary,  My  Mother,  and  Joseph  find 
Me  when  I was  lost,  if  not  in  the  Temple,  the  house 
>f  prayer?  Where  My  Disciples  and  friends — 
except  returning  from  prayer,  with  My  Heart  still 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


237 


praying?  Where,  in  fine,  My  enemies — except 
praying  in  the  solitude  of  Gethsemane  ? 

Examine  carefully  every  day  of  My  life;  behold! 
the  very  dawn  found  Me  at  prayer,  and,  even  at 
that  time,  sanctifying  the  labors  of  the  day. 

When  the  toils  of  day  were  over,  lo!  when  all 
nature  was  at  rest,  the  darkness  of  the  night  beheld 
Me  praying,  and  pouring  forth  My  Heart  before  My 
Father — with  the  Angels  alone  as  My  witnesses. 

But  even  amidst  the  very  labors  of  the  day,  how 
often  did  I withdraw  a little  from  the  multitude! 
how  often,  whilst  in  the  midst  of  the  multitude, 
and  during  My  labors,  did  I raise  My  Heart  to  My 
Father! 

2.  My  Child,  strive  thou  with  special  care  and 
diligence,  to  acquire  this  Spirit  of  prayer,  this  holy 
habit  of  praying. 

All  the  Saints,  and  followers  of  the  Saints,  all 
the  Disciples  of  My  Heart,  learned  this  holy  and 
sanctifying  use  of  prayer.  They  prayed  at  stated 
times,  not  merely  with  their  lips,  but  also  with 
their  mind  and  heart:  again,  wherever  they  were, 
under  every  circumstance  of  fortune,  they  had  in- 
wardly recourse  to  Me  by  prayer — making  known 
to  My  Heart  their  joy  and  gratefulness,  amid  pros- 
perity; imploring  My  help  and  comfort,  in  adver- 
sity; asking  counsel,  in  their  doubts. 

So  shouldst  thou  also  do,  My  Child,  if  thou  wilt 
aspire  to  holiness;  yea,  if  thou  art  desirous  of 
securing  thy  salvation. 

3.  Meditate  devoutly,  every  day.  But  beware, 
lest  thy  meditation  prove  a musing,  rather  than  a 
prayer;  a pious  study,  rather  than  a divine  inter- 
course. 


238 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Let  the  mind  reason  and  reflect,  as  much  as  is 
necessary;  but  let  the  heart  elicit  acts,  sometimes 
of  faith,  hope,  charity;  sometimes  of  sorrow,  hu- 
mility, self-denial;  again,  of  fortitude,  of  good  and 
Arm  resolve;  again,  of  thanksgiving,  of  joy  and 
exultation  of  heart  with  the  Angels  and  Saints; 
now  of  resignation,  of  conformity  to  the  divine 
Will,  of  pure  love,  reposing  in  God’s  good  pleasure; 
or  of  any  other  virtue  whatsoever;  then  let  it  fer- 
vently petition  much  for  itself,  and  also  for  others: 
- — for  the  Church  and  her  ministers,  for  the  perfec- 
tion of  the  Saints  dwelling  on  earth,  for  the  per- 
severance of  the  just,  for  the  conversion  of  all  sin- 
ners, heretics,  and  infidels. 

In  proportion  as  thou  advancest  in  the  interior 
life,  and  attainest  to  a more  perfect  degree  in  the 
same,  thou  shouldst  shorten  thy  reasonings,  and 
give  freer  scope  to  the  affections,  so  that  thou  treatest 
with  Me  in  thy  heart,  by  means  of  acts  and  peti- 
tions, and,  at  last,  by  the  mere  occupation  of  divine 
union. 

Meditate  and  pray  in  this  manner,  My  Child, 
and  remember  that,  whether  thou  prayest  orally  or 
mentally,  the  heart  must  be  foremost,  in  order  that 
every  prayer  and  supplication  may  be  performed  in 
an  attentive  and  devout  manner. 

Although  thou  mayst  not  be  able  to  pray  so  well 
as  thou  desirest,  do  not  think  little  of  thy  piayer, 
or  neglect  it.  Verily,  I Myself,  do  neither  deem  it 
of  little  importance,  nor  do  I ove  lock  the  same. 

Do  with  a good  will  whatever  thou  art  able;  by 
so  doing,  be  convinced  that  thou  prayest  well  and 
meritoriously,  and  that  thou  wilt  make  progress  in 
virtue,  as  well  as  in  prayer. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


239 


4.  Let  it  not  be  sufficient  for  thee  tc  pray  at 
certain  times:  for  it  behooves  thee  to  pray  always, 
and  not  to  grow  faint.  Behold  My  sweet  command, 
according  to  which  thou  canst  approach  Me  at  all 
times,  and,  as  a child,  converse  with  Me. 

Everywhere  there  are  obstacles,  within  and  with- 
out: temptations  from  every  side,  both  open  and 
secret:  always  dangers,  lest  the  crown  promised 
to  perseverance  be  lost.  Exceedingly  necessary, 
therefore,  is  grace,  which,  however,  is  not  wont 
to  be  given,  in  a special  manner,  except  to  them 
that  pray. 

Almost  everything,  then,  depends  on  prayer : without 
prayer,  evil  things  find  no  remedy,  good  things 
become  dangerous;  but  to  him  who  prays,  both 
good  and  evil  will  prove  advantageous. 

Nowhere,  My  Child,  except  in  prayer,  wilt  thou 
acquire  a true  knowledge  of  Me  and  of  thyself: 
therefore,  without  prayer,  thou  wilt  never  attain  to 
true  humility  and  charity. 

Without  prayer,  thou  wilt  never  fully  understand 
My  Heart,  nor  possess  Its  Spirit.  Without  prayer, 
thou  wilt,  in  many  things,  not  seize  the  sentiments 
of  My  Heart;  and,  what  is  more  dangerous,  thou 
wilt  measure  My  Heart  by  thy  own. 

If  in  thy  concerns  thou  hast  recourse  to  prayer, 
it  will  not  rarely  happen,  that  thou  judgest  differ- 
ently of  them,  from  what  thou  didst  before;  because 
the  light  of  divine  grace,  which  is  wont  to  be  poured 
into  the  soul  during  prayer,  is  infinitely  purer  than 
the  light  of  human  reason. 

What  thou  didst  think  to  have  sprung  from  grace, 
thou  shalt  often  find  to  be  the  offspring  of  nature: 
what  thou  didst  fancy  a virtue,  thou  shalt  sometimes 


240 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


perceive  to  be  self-love:  what  thou  didst  judge  to 
be  for  My  greater  glory,  thou  shalt  often  under- 
stand to  be  the  effect  of  thy  hidden  pride. 

5.  The  interior  man,  amid  his  troubles,  has  first 
recourse  to  Me,  and  begs  for  help:  therefore,  he  is 
relieved,  and  obtains  frequently  extraordinary  fa- 
vors; whereas,  he  that  has  first  recourse  to  human 
means,  so  far  from  being  disburdened,  increases  his 
difficulties;  until,  entering  into  himself,  he  comes 
to  Me,  without  whose  aid  human  endeavors  are  of 
no  avail  to  the  suffering  heart. 

My  Child,  if  thou  comest  to  My  Heart  whenever 
thou  art  in  affliction,  there  will  be  no  need  to  look 
for  human  consolations:  thou  shalt  find  one  drop 
of  My  consolation  sweeter  and  more  effectual  than 
all  the  flood  of  men’s  consoling  words. 

If,  betimes,  for  My  honor  and  for  thy  advantage, 
I give  thee  no  sensible  consolation  to  taste;  thou 
shalt  still  ever  find  true  comfort  in  My  Heart,  both 
by  resigning  thyself  to  My  good  pleasure,  and  by 
receiving  My  assistance. 

This  holy  resignation,  although,  on  the  one  hand, 
it  is  contrary  to  the  feelings,  and,  therefore,  bitter; 
yet,  on  the  other,  by  means  of  grace,  becomes  so 
sweet,  in  spite  of  the  feelings,  that  no  one,  unless 
he  has  experienced  it,  can  fully  understand  the 
same. 

6.  When  the  man  of  prayer  is  tempted,  he  be- 
comes more  united  with  Me;  he  is  not  cast  down 
but  raised;  he  is  not  saddened  but  cheered  up;  he 
is  not  shaken  but  rendered  more  firm. 

If,  at  any  time,  thou  art  overtaken  by  the  storm, 
or  even  wrapt  up  in  its  thick  darkness,  turn  thyself 
to  Me — who  am  ever  present — and,  with  thy  heart, 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


241 


cling  to  Me  confidingly:  thou  shalt  be  secure  amid 
the  very  rage  and  gloom  of  the  tempest;  and,  some- 
times, thou  shalt  be  illumined  with  a ray  of  softest 
light  from  above,  that  thereby  thou  mayst  see,  that 
what  thou  thoughtest  certain  destruction,  was  either 
a mere  nothing,  or  even  an  advantage. 

When  thou  art  desirous  of  saying  or  doing  some- 
thing, and  a doubt  or  perplexity  presents  itself, 
whether  or  not  it  be  lawful;  entering  into  thyself, 
hearken  to  My  Spirit,  and  if,  by  having  frequently 
recourse  to  Me,  thou  nast  learned  to  distinguish  My 
whisperings,  thou  wilt  perceive  a clear  decision — 
which  thou  mayst  follow  with  safety. 

A soul  accustomed  to  have  recourse  to  Me,  has 
everywhere  with  her  a protector,  a counsellor  and 
comforter,  whom — not  only  when  she  is  alone,  but 
also  whilst  dealing  with  her  neighbor — she  knows, 
and  loves  to  call  upon  in  her  heart,  to  consult,  and 
to  entertain. 

7.  After  this  do  thou  strive,  My  Child,  for  this 
do  thou  leave  naught  undone,  that  thou  mayst  ac- 
quire this  pious  habit  of  having  recourse  to  My 
Heart,  of  tending  towards  Me  as  thy  centre,  of 
busying  thyself  inwardly  with  Me,  of  dealing  with 
Me  by  means  of  prayer.  This  is  that  Spirit  of 
prayer,  which,  if  thou  secure  it  for  thyself,  will 
lovingly  entertain  thee  in  solitude,  will  guard  thee 
in  public,  will  solace  thee  in  adversity,  will  check 
thee  in  prosperity,  will  protect  thee  in  dangers,  and, 
everywhere  at  thy  service,  will  guide  thee  to  holi- 
ness. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — This,  O Lord,  this 
is  a great  good,  exceedingly  to  be  desired:  yea,  it 
seems  that  this  alone  is  one  of  the  main  secrets  of 


242  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

the  interior  life.  But,  by  what  means,  I pray,  shall 
I acquire  this  pious  habit  ? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — First  of  all,  My  Child,  thou 
oughtest  frequently  to  beg  for  the  gift  of  prayer,  of 
all  gifts  the  best — which  embraces  every  gift:  by 
prayer,  as  other  things,  so,  especially,  is  the  gift  of 
prayer  obtained. 

Next,  it  is  a good  counsel — well-suited  to  ac- 
quire for  thyself  the  habit  of  prayer — as  much  as 
possible,  so  to  arrange  thy  occupations,  that  no 
long  interval  ever  intervene,  during  which  thou  dost 
not  for  sometime — or  at  least  for  a few  moments — 
confer  with  Me  by  means  of  some  spiritual  prac- 
tice. 

Then,  thou  must  make  use  of  both  inward  and 
outward  temptations  and  troubles,  as  of  so  many 
warnings,  to  turn  thyself  to  Me,  for  the  sake  of 
evincing  thy  love,  imploring  grace,  and  renewing 
thy  lesolve  of  being  faithful. 

Lastly,  thou  shouldst  persist  in  thy  repeated  ef- 
forts, until  thou  art  accustomed  to  make  use  of 
prayer,  until  thou  hast  recourse  to  Me  under  every 
circumstance,  like  a child  to  its  parent — not  by 
the  power  of  reason  and  reflection,  but  bv  a sponta- 
neous instinct. 

8.  Cheer  up,  My  Child,  spare  neither  care  nor 
diligence  to  acquire  this  science  of  the  Elect,  this 
object  of  the  longing  of  all  the  Disciples  of  My 
Heart.  It  is  worth  all  that  and  more. 

In  prayer  thou  hast  a support  in  thy  wants; 
amends  for  thy  shortcomings,  means  for  progress; 
a safe  hope  of  perseverance;  whatsoever  it  is  prof- 
itable to  possess. 

Prayer  is  the  refreshment  of  them  that  hunger 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


243 


and  thirst  after  justice:  prayer  is  the  delight  of 
pure  souls:  prayer,  to  sum  up  all,  is  the  employ- 
ment of  the  Saints,  and  their  repose  as  well. 

Whilst  thou  prayest,  thou  honorest  and  glorifiest 
Me,  thou  performest  that  upon  earth,  which  the 
Angels  and  Saints  are  doing  in  heaven,  and  which 
must  be  thy  blissful  occupation  throughout  a joy- 
ous eternity. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Delightful,  indeed, 
Lord  Jesus,  are  the  things  which  Thou  teachest  me 
concerning  prayer:  they  affect  the  heart  by  their 
unction,  and  fill  it  with  love  for  that  holy  exercise. 

Behold,  Lord,  as  much  as  I am  able  will  I pray: 
I will  pray  with  my  mind,  I will  pray  with  my 
heart,  I will  pray  with  my  lips.  Help  me  with 
Thy  grace. 

By  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  I beseech  Thee, 
grant  me  the  spirit  of  prayer,  in  order  that  prayer, 
which  is  manifold,  may  also  be  my  life. 

I ask  not  for  extraordinary  gifts,  not  the  gift  of 
prophecy,  not  the  gift  of  miracles:  grant  these  to 
them,  whom,  in  Thy  loving-kindness,  Thou  choos- 
est:  never  will  I envy  them. 

But  this  I beg  humbly;  this,  I entreat  Thee, 
grant  Thou  me,  the  gift  of  prayer — the  gift  which 
is  above  every  gift  to  me. 

Through  it  comes  every  good:  through  it  I have 
access  to  the  fountain  of  all  Good:  through  it  I 
find  entrance  into  Thy  very  Heart. 


244 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

OF  THE  LOVE  OF  SOLITUDE,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  ABIDING  AT 

NAZARETH. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  after  I had 
been  at  Jerusalem,  engaged  in  the  things  which  are 
My  Father’s,  so  long  as  My  Father  Himself  willed 
it;  I went  down  to  Nazareth,  and  there  unknown, 
I advanced  in  grace  with  God  and  with  men. 

Understand  this  My  hidden  life  : study  the 
sentiments  of  My  Heart,  and  strive  to  imitate  them 
sedulously. 

Thou  mightst  have  seen  Me,  with  a serene  coun- 
tenance and  a joyous  Heart,  now  at  home,  intent 
on  My  various  duties  and  occupations:  now  abroad, 
applying  Myself  to  divers  labors:  always  ready  for 
everything:  everywhere  obedient:  at  all  times  and 
in  every  place,  a spectacle  full  of  grace,  to  God 
My  Father,  to  My  Virgin  Mother,  to  Joseph,  and 
to  the  wondering  Angels. 

Behold  how  the  Son  of  God  was  employed  for 
so  long  a time  I behold  how  He  grew  up,  like  the 
lily  of  the  valleys,  hidden  indeed  from  the  world, 
but  prominent  and  pleasing  in  the  sight  of  heaven. 

2.  Wonder  not,  My  Child,  that  I passed  so  many 
years  in  retirement,  that  I did  not  show  Myself  to 
the  world,  except  after  a long  time.  This  example 
of  Mine,  this  interior  love  of  solitude,  was  exceed- 
ingly necessary  to  men. 

Without  this  love  of  solitude,  men,  influenced  by 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


245 


corrupt  nature,  pour  themselves  out,  as  it  were,  into 
external  things:  most  of  them  follow  self-love,  by 
imaginary  and  unusual  ways  and  means  of  salvation 
and  perfection — whereby  they  are  deceived,  and 
led  astray  from  the  spirit  of  their  state  and  voca- 
tion; others  obey  a secret  pride,  undertake  affairs 
and  fill  employments,  without  due  preparation, 
without  regularity — seeking  not  the  things  which  are 
Mine,  but  those  which  are  their  own. 

Whence  it  happens,  that  they  wander  from  the 
right  path.  And  as — on  account  of  the  ceaseless 
bustle,  and  their  applications  to  external  things — 
they  heed  not  the  divine  inspirations,  they  fall  from 
one  error  into  another;  they  become  more  and 
more  wrapt  up  in  their  delusions,  until,  at  last,  they 
render  fruitless  to  themselves  every  means  of  salva- 
tion and  perfection. 

3.  The  object  of  the  example  of  My  hidden  and 
inward  life  is  two-fold:  to  teach  men  to  guard 
against  such  evils,  that  they  may  keep  the  safe  road 
of  salvation;  and  to  show  to  them,  wherein  true 
perfection  consists. 

Whatever  glitters  or  resounds,  whatever  awakens 
in  some  manner  the  attention  or  admiration  of  men, 
upon  this  most  men  are  wont  to  look,  as  something 
more  perfect,  and  better  adapted  to  glorify  God, 
and  to  shine  before  their  neighbor. 

But  how  great  an  error!  how  great  a delusion! 
For  it  all  arises  from  secret  pride,  and  ends  in  self- 
love. 

In  truth,  perfection,  as  is  made  evident  by  the 
example  of  My  Heart,  consists  in  doing  the  divine 
good  pleasure  with  humility  and  charity. 

Without  a regard  for  solitude,  man  is  not  wont 


246 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


to  understand,  at  all  times,  the  divine  Will,  to  guard 
humility,  or  to  preserve  true — not  fictitious — 
charity. 

Pray,  therefore,  My  Child,  that  thou  mayst  be 
worthy  to  acquire  and  cherish  a love  for  solitude. 
It  is  so  great  a good,  that  there  exists  hardly  any- 
thing so  useful,  both  to  act  with  a right  spirit,  and 
to  pray  with  the  same  spirit. 

Examine  the  lives  of  the  Saints,  and  thou  shalt 
not  find  one  among  them  who  did  not  love  sacred 
solitude. 

4.  The  solitude,  which  the  faithful  must  cherish, 
is  relative  to  their  state  and  condition  of  life. 
Whence  it  may  happen  that  what  is  praised  in  one 
ought  to  be  blamed  in  another. 

Now,  this  is  a safe  rule,  the  true  method  for 
every  faithful  soul,  of  all  states  or  conditions:  To 
love  solitude  in  such  a manner,  that,  after  having 
duly  performed  whatsoever  thy  duties  or  employ- 
ments demand,  thou  retire  with  Me  from  the  crowd, 
and  collect  thyself  near  Me,  until  the  divine  Will 
calls  thee  away. 

If  thou  withdraw  thyself  from  unnecessary  com- 
pany, useless  conversation,  the  idle  rumors  of  the 
world;  in  short,  from  all  matters  which  do  not 
concern  thee,  thou  shalt  have  sufficient  time  to 
deal  with  Me  in  solitude. 

But  when,  from  the  intercourse  of  men,  thou  re- 
tirest  into  solitude,  do  not  simply  leave  men,  and 
yet  carry  thy  cares  with  thee. 

For  there  are  those,  who  are  no  less  distracted 
and  dissipated  in  solitude  than  they  were  in  the 
company  of  men,  and  amid  their  occupations;  be- 
cause they  give  free  scope  to  the  vagaries  of  the 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


247 


imagination,  to  the  inquisitiveness  of  the  under- 
standing, and  the  fretfulness  of  the  will. 

It  is  necessary,  first  of  all,  to  arrange  thy  free 
time  in  an  orderly  manner,  so  that,  to  a settled 
time,  be  assigned  a fixed  employment,  lest,  over- 
come by  disgust,  thou  wander  about,  or  waste  time 
in  discussing  how  thou  shouldst  spend  it. 

Order,  in  all  things,  is  of  the  greatest  advantage: 
it  drives  away  idleness  and  dullness  of  spirit'  it 
prevents  many  temptations  and  difficulties;  it 
affords  an  opportunity  of  doing  well,  and  with  ease, 
many  things ; lastly,  it  makes  thee  live  for  Me. 

5.  He  that  is  alone  with  Me  in  the  sight  of 
Angels,  either  makes  amends  for  the  past,  or 
strengthens  himself  in  what  is  good:  and,  whilst 
reflecting  on  himself  and  his  actions,  he  is  taught 
many  things.  For  it  is  not  so  much  length  of 
time,  or  multiplicity  of  matters,  as  the  purity  of 
prayer  and  meditation,  which  renders  a man  truly 
experienced. 

He  that  is  collected  within  himself,  away  from 
the  turmoil  of  the  world,  recovers  his  peace,  if  lost, 
or  strengthens  it,  when  preserved:  he  rejoices  in 
the  communication  of  graces  of  divers  kinds;  he 
rightly  arranges  beforehand  that  which  he  mav 
afterward  be  able  to  perform  with  fruit  and  merit. 

Whence,  My  Child,  does  it  come,  except  from 
union  with  Me,  that  interior  men — even  under  the 
most  trying  circumstances —continue  so  self-pos- 
sessed that  they  are  an  object  of  admiration  to  the 
multitude;  and  are  so  persevering  that  they  exe- 
cute, with  the  greatest  fearlessness,  whatsoever  they 
have  once  resolved  ? 

How  many  defects  shalt  thou  avoid,  how  many 


248 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


virtues  shalt  thou  practice,  if  thou  do  but  cherish 
solitude ! 

All  the  Disciples  of  My  Heart  have  ever  held  as 
certain,  that  they  were  so  much  the  nearer  to  My 
Heart,  the  farther  they  were  with  their  heart  re- 
moved from  creatures. 

8.  My  Child,  if  thou  art  truly  humble,  thou  wilt 
seek  after  solitude:  for,  as  much  as  it  is  able, 
humility  loves  to  be  concealed,  and  dreads  to  be 
noticed.  If  thou  art  enkindled  with  a true  and 
divine  love,  thou  wilt  seek  after  solitude:  for  the 
flame  of  love,  exposed  to  every  breath  of  the  world, 
is  easily  extinguished,  unless  it  be  frequently  fed 
in  solitude. 

Or  what  is  worse,  charity,  if  always  dissipated, 
becomes,  by  degrees,  a disguised  sensuality. 

Solitude,  when  adapted  to  each  one’s  circum- 
stances, and  properly  kept,  becomes  sweeter  little 
by  little,  and  secures  numberless  advantages. 

For  it  is  the  safeguard  of  innocence,  the  dwelling 
of  peace,  the  abode  of  the  interior  life,  the  school 
of  holiness,  the  place  of  heavenly  secrets,  the  chosen 
means  of  divine  communication. 

If  thou  art  desirous  of  enjoying  these  things, 
love  sacred  solitude:  frequently  will  I invite  thee, 
frequently  will  I lead  thee  into  the  same,  that  there 
I may  speak  to  thy  heart. 

7.  Be  not  deterred  from  cherishing  sacred  soli- 
tude— even  should  men  occasionally  censure  thee, 
on  account  of  thy  love  of  retirement.  Let  talkers 
have  their  say:  for  thyself,  attend  thou  to  what  is 
good. 

If  thou  desires!  to  suit  thy  life  to  the  opinions 
of  others,  thou  wilt  have  to  assume  as  many  dif- 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


249 


ferent  shapes  as  thou  meetest  men:  for  there  are 
as  many  opinions  as  there  are  minds. 

When  the  divine  Will  does  not  make  known  to 
thee,  that  thou  shouldst  be  with  men,  stay  thou 
alone  with  Me. 

Thus  the  Saints,  unless  called  forth  by  the  divine 
Will,  would  have  continued  in  solitude,  even  to 
their  dying  hour,  unknown  to  men. 

Nevertheless,  My  Child,  as  often  as  by  My  Will 
— in  whatsoever  manner  it  be  made  known — thou 
art  sent  forth  by  Me,  thou  shouldst  leave  thy  soli- 
tude with  the  same  readiness  and  freedom  of  mind 
with  which  thou  didst  enter  it. 

At  My  bidding,  leave  thou  as  speedily  as  possi- 
ble, or  rather  exchange  for  the  better,  whatever 
useful  occupation  detains  thee — gladly  accommo- 
dating thyself,  without  any  sign  of  displeasure,  to 
circumstances  which  present  themselves. 

Do  not  bind  thyself  to  any  preconceived  method, 
rather  than  to  My  divine  Will;  do  not,  through  a 
false  exactness,  and  an  ill-regulated  strictness,  ren- 
der piety  hateful  or  unlovely. 

If  thou  hast  learnt  of  My  Heart  a truly  interior 
spirit,  thou  wilt  safely  follow  a middle  course, 
avoiding  both  extremes. 

Therefore,  imitate  not  those  dissipated  persons, 
who — thinking  that  the  time  spent  in  solitude  is 
lost,  or  perceiving  that  things  interior  are  distasteful 
to  them — do  ever  seek  pretenses  of  pouring  them- 
selves out  upon  outward  objects,  entangle  them- 
selves with  what  does  not  concern  them,  frequently 
neglect  what  they  ought  to  perform,  and  do  what  they 
should  omit. 

Neither  follow  thou  the  footsteps  of  those  who. 


250 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


under  cover  of  piety,  neglect  all  things  external,  and, 
with  all  access  shut  off,  so  hide  themselves  in  soli- 
tude that  neither  the  inviting  of  My  Spirit,  nor 
charity,  nor  obedience,  is  able  to  draw  them  thence: 
and  who,  if,  at  any  time,  necessity  drives  them  out, 
or  disturbs  them,  are  indignant,  sullen  and  fretful. 

For  thyself,  My  Child,  follow  the  divine  Will, 
love  to  be  with  Me  in  solitude,  according  to  My 
good  pleasure:  and,  whenever  it  is  My  Will  that 
thou  shouldst  be  with  creatures,  love  to  be  with 
them,  for  love  of  Me. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O sacred  solitude! 
how  great  and  how  numberless  the  blessings  where- 
with thou  overflowest! 

Didst  thou  understand  all  these  things,  my  soul? 
frequently,  then,  hasten  away  into  solitude:  thither 
go  thou  as  much  as  thou  canst:  thither  do  thou 
often  resort,  away  from  all  turmoil,  were  it  only  for 
a little  while — but  more  with  the  heart  than  with 
the  body. 

There  do  thou  breathe  freely;  there  refresh  thy- 
self; there  advance  in  grace;  there,  among  the 
Angels,  entertain  thyself  with  thy  Beloved. 

O Beloved  of  my  heart,  most  sweet  Jesus!  give 
me,  I beseech  Thee,  and  nourish  in  me,  the  love 
of  sacred  solitude,  wherein  I may  find  Thee,  wherein 
I may  enjoy  Thee,  wherein  I may  be  happy  with 
Thee. 

Thy  conversation,  unlike  that  of  men,  has  no 
bitterness;  neither  has  Thy  intercourse  any  irk- 
someness; it  is  all  spiritual  joy,  pure  delight,  di- 
vine sweetness. 


CHAPTER  XV, 


251 


CHAPTER  XV. 

OF  THE  DIVINE  PRESENCE,  WHEREIN  WE  ARE 

TAUGHT  TO  LIVE,  BY  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST 

SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  BAPTIZED. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  beginning 
about  the  age  of  thirty  years,  sent  by  the  Will  of 
My  Father,  I left  Nazareth  and  came  to  the  Jordan, 
to  be  baptized. 

And  when  I was  baptized,  coming  forthwith  out 
of  the  water,  I betook  Myself  to  prayer.  But  lo! 
whilst  I prayed,  and  the  crowd  of  men  were  throng- 
ing around  Me,  the  heavens  were  opened,  and  the 
Holy  Spirit,  under  the  form  of  a dove,  came  upon 
Me;  and  the  voice  of  My  Father  was  heard,  say- 
ing: This  is  My  beloved  Son,  in  whom  I am  well 
pleased. 

What  solemnity,  My  Child!  how  glorious!  but 
not  displayed  for  Me.  This  voice  came  not  for 
Me,  but  for  men,  that  they  might  acknowledge  Me 
as  their  Saviour,  and,  believing  in  Me,  hoping  in 
Me,  loving  Me,  they  might  have  life  everlasting. 

I needed  not  this  outward  display  for  Myself; 
since,  what  was  done  visibly  at  My  Baptism,  I 
enjoyed  unseen  at  all  times.  Everywhere  and 
always,  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Spirit  were  with 
Me. 

My  Heart  possessed  always  every  sufficiency  in 
things  internal:  in  these  It  rejoiced  fully:  in  these 
It  found  supreme  delight. 

My  Heart  united  to  the  Godhead,  by  act  and  af- 


252  THE  SECOND  BOOK. 

fection  ever  present  to  the  same,  lived  as  if  ever 
absorbed  therein. 

2.  My  Child,  as  much  as  thou  canst,  imitate  this 
example  of  My  Heart.  Concerning  which  I have 
to  tell  thee  many  things — but  agreeable  and  full 
of  consolation. 

Exert  thyself,  My  Child,  that  thou  mayst  ever 
enjoy  the  divine  presence,  that  thou  mayst  every- 
where live  before  Me,  thy  Saviour — God. 

If  thou  lovest  Me,  thou  wilt  find  thy  delight  in 
walking  before  Me,  in  enjoying  My  presence. 

Was  it  ever  heard,  or  has  it  ever  happened,  that 
any  one  did  not  find  his  delight  in  the  presence  of 
him  whom  he  loves  ? 

Behold!  I am  always  and  everywhere  with  thee, 
inasmuch  as  I am  a divine  Person — nowhere  do  I 
lose  sight  of  thee. 

Nay  more,  in  My  sight  no  creature  is  unseen. 
In  every  place  My  eyes  behold  both  the  good  and 
the  wicked,  and  look  into  the  very  heart  of  each 
of  them. 

Who  can  hide  himself  from  My  sight?  Whether 
he  conceal  himself  in  darkness,  whether  he  hide  in 
the  loneliness  of  the  wilderness,  whether  he  bury 
himself  in  the  depths  of  the  earth  or  the  sea, 
whether  he  goes  down  even  to  hell — everywhere  My 
eyes  are  upon  him. 

In  such  a manner,  My  Child,  am  I present  to- all 
and  each  one,  that,  wTith  My  all-powerful  hand,  I 
can  reach  every  one,  both  to  restrain  or  punish,  to 
help  or  reward  him. 

3.  I am  also  with  thee,  not  only  with  all  the 
sweetness  of  My  Divinity,  but  also  with  that  of  My 
Humanity — in  the  sacred  Tabernacle. 


CHAPTER  XCn 


253 


Whithersoever,  therefore,  thou  goest,  whether  to 
the  right  or  to  the  left:  wheresoever  thou  mayst 
be,  whether  in  thy  own  country,  or  in  the  land  of 
the  stranger;  in  every  place,  where  the  Most  Holy 
Sacrament  reposes,  thou  hast  Me  present,  not  only 
with  My  Divinity,  but  also  My  Soul  and  Body. 

There  thou  findest  Me  present  with  the  same 
countenance,  the  same  lips,  the  same  ears,  the  same 
affections  of  the  Heart,  that  once  were  the  delight 
of  My  Disciples — as  they  are  even  now  that  of  the 
Angels  and  Saints  in  heaven. 

Understand,  My  Child,  the  whole  mystery  of 
love.  Behold!  from  out  the  sacred  Tabernacle,  I 
am  with  thee,  in  some  manner — wherever  upon 
earth  thou  mayst  be — by  the  love  of  My  Heart. 
In  My  Heart,  I busy  Myself  about  thee:  with  My 
love,  I follow  thee  everywhere. 

4.  How,  then,  canst  thou  be  forgetful  of  Me? 
how  not  be  taken  up  with  love  for  Me?  how  with 
mind  and  heart  stray  away  from  Me  ? 

Then,  My  Child,  dost  thou  truly  walk  before 
Me,  when  thy  mind  thinks  actuallv  or  virtuallv  on 
Me;  when,  in  like  manner,  thy  heart  is  occupied 
with  love  of  Me  as  present. 

Now,  of  this  divine  presence  there  are  certain 
degrees,  which  interior  souls  arrange  in  their  heart, 
and  by  which  thy  come  ever  more  closely  to  Me. 

The  first  is,  when  man,  by  virtue  of  actual  atten- 
tion, or  at  least  of  a virtual  intention,  lives  so  self- 
collected  that  he  does  everything  in  a manner 
worthy  of  My  sight,  and,  meanwhile,  by  repeated 
acts,  turns  himself  to  Me. 

In  the  next  place,  when — with  a heart  cleansed 
from  every  ill-regulated  affection,  and  dedicated  t^ 


*54 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Me  as  a special  sanctuary — man  attends  faithfully, 
listening  to  what  I speak  within,  and  is  ever  ready 
to  answer  to  My  whisperings. 

Lastly,  when  the  interior  soul,  in  some  manner 
absorbed  in  Me,  so  lives  for  Me  that  she  is  wont 
not  to  be  mindful  of  herself  except  in  Me;  not  to 
love  herself,  except  in  Me — ever  reposing  in  Me 
with  a certain  sweet  and  divine  union,  and  enjoying 
My  presence  more  perfectly  than  the  bird  enjoys 
the  air  wherein  he  flies,  or  a healthy  man  the 
health  that  gives  him  vigor. 

This  is  the  completing  of  divine  union,  which 
surpasses  all  understanding,  to  which  pure  souls — 
that,  by  generous  sacrifices,  whether  external  or 
internal,  have  disposed  themselves,  with  a perfect 
heart  leaving  all  creatures,  and  even  themselves — 
with  the  aid  of  grace  are  wont  to  attain. 

5.  My  Child,  the  remembrance  of  My  presence 
is  the  most  efficacious  means  of  avoiding  sins.  For 
who,  if  he  calls  to  mind  that  he  stands  in  the  sight 
of  God,  could  dare  to  offend  Him,  who,  at  the 
same  instant,  can  hurl  both  body  and  soul  into 
hell? 

If,  with  thy  own  eyes,  thou  wert  to  behold  Me 
present  to  thee,  in  a sensible  form,  wouldst  thou  be 
willing,  My  Child,  wouldst  thou  dare  to  commit  sin 
in  My  very  sight?  Wouldst  thou  not  deport  thy- 
self in  a respectful  manner?  But,  with  the  eyes 
of  faith,  thou  seest  Me  more  clearly  and  more  cer- 
tainly present,  than  if  thou  sawest  Me  with  the  eyes 
of  the  body. 

Remember  and  love  Me  who  am  present  to  thee, 
and  thou  shalt  not  sin  forever.  What  is  it  that 
renders  sinless  the  inhabitants  of  heaven  ? Is  it 


CHAPTER  XV. 


255 


not  the  Vision  and  the  love  of  the  Godhead,  and 
that  which  arises  thence  ? 

When,  by  faith,  thy  mind  beholds  thy  God,  when 
thy  heart  loves  Him,  thou  wilt  not  offend  so  great 
a Majesty.  Although,  by  nature,  thou  art  weak 
and  liable  to  fall;  yet  this  divine  Vision  will  not 
allow  thee  to  be  deceived,  nor  will  this  love  suffer 
thee  to  fall.  For  wdioever  abides  therein  sins 
not. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  so  long  as,  bv  faith  and 
love,  thou  walkest  before  Me,  thou  shalt  be  sinless; 
not  indeed,  by  thy  nature,  but  by  My  presence. 

Whenever  thou  didst  sin,  surely,  whilst  resolving 
to  sin,  thou  sawest  Me  not  by  faith,  neither  knewest 
thou  Me  by  love.  For  whosoever  sins  neither 
sees  nor  knows  his  God. 

6.  What  is  there  more  delightful  than  My  pres- 
ence? what  more  pleasant?  what  more  useful  for 
everything?  Is  it  not  an  enduring  Paradise?  whom 
the  Angels  and  Saints  gaze  upon,  face  to  face,  whom 
they  truly  possess  in  heaven  the  same  thou  be- 
holdest  upon  earth  by  faith,  the  same  thou  enjoyest 
by  love  — whilst  thou  growest  all  the  while  in 
merits. 

Without  the  practice  of  the  divine  presence,  soli- 
tude is  wont  to  be  dangerous,  the  intercourse  of 
men  hurtful.  But,  by  the  use  of  it,  both  are  helped 
and  made  holy. 

Thou  shalt  scarcely  find  any  one  practice  of 
piety  which  contains  such  a number,  such  a var- 
iety, and  such  a frequency  of  acts  of  virtue  as  this 
holy  exercise  of  the  divine  presence. 

Be  of  good  cheer,  then,  My  Child:  endeavor 
piously  and  diligently,  to  acquire  the  habit  of  living 


256 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


in  My  presence.  When  once  acquired,  it  will  serve 
thee  as  a protection  amid  dangers,  as  a light  in 
darkness,  as  a comfort  in  solitude,  as  a safeguard 
in  the  world — everywhere  as  a constant  practice  of 
virtues,  everywhere  as  a divine  fellowship. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — But,  good  Master, 
most  sweet  Jesus,  in  what  manner,  pray,  shall  I 
acquire  this  sacred  habit  ? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Before  everything  else,  My 
Child,  thou  must  often  pray,  earnestly  beg  for 
grace;  whereby  thou  mayst  be  excited  to  call  to 
mind,  with  a lively  faith  and  a confiding  love,  the 
divine  presence. 

The  senses,  also,  are  to  be  kept  under  strict 
discipline;  and  the  inordinate  desire  of  perceiving 
external  things  is  to  be  mortified. 

Then,  the  internal  faculties  are  to  be  guarded: 
not  only  wicked,  but  also  useless  thoughts,  are  to 
be  kept  from  the  mind,  vain  and  idle  occupations 
from  the  heart. 

Afterwards  thou  shouldst  endeavor  to  turn  thy- 
self frequently  to  Me  by  short  and  fervent  aspira- 
tions, which  will  be  all  the  more  profitable  to 
thee  in  proportion  as  they  are  more  adapted  to  the 
state  and  circumstances  of  thy  soul. 

Finally,  My  Child,  in  all  things  seen,  thou 
oughtest  to  seek  Me,  the  unseen,  the  Beloved  of  thy 
heart. 

Do  not  the  very  creatures,  which  surround  thee 
on  every  side,  warn  thee  of  My  presence?  Lift  up 
thy  eyes  and  behold  how  all  things,  each  after  its 
own  manner,  proclaim  that  I am  present. 

Do  not  the  serenity  of  the  sky  and  the  very  storm 
proclaim  it?  do  not  the  fruits  and  flowers?  Do 


CHAPTER  XV. 


25? 


not  consolations  and  afflictions?  Do  not  virtues 
and  the  fountains  of  grace  ? 

My  Child,  if  thou  art  an  interior  Disciple  of  My 
Heart,  all  things  that  present  themselves  before 
tnee  will  help  thee  to  be  mindful  of  Me,  and  to 
love  Me  present  everywhere. 

Everywhere  thou  shalt  find  Me;  and  thou  shalt 
pass  over  all  even  unto  Me,  in  whom  alone  thou 
shalt  find  joy  and  repose. 

8.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  God  in- 
visible beholding  all  things,  incomprehensible  and 
present  everywhere,  whither  shall  I hee  from  Thy 
face  ? 

Behold!  if  I go  up  into  heaven,  Thou  art  there; 
if  I go  down  into  hell,  Thou  art  present.  If  I take 
wings  at  the  dawn,  and  dwell  in  the  uttermost  parts 
of  the  sea,  there  also  Thy  hands  will  guide  and 
hold  me. 

Darkness  has  no  gloom  before  Thee:  night  is  to 
Thee  as  the  day.  Everywhere  am  I in  Thy  sight; 
within  and  without  am  I unvailed  before  Thy 
eyes. 

9.  Lo  then,  Thou  art  ever  present  to  me.  How 
sweet  a thought!  how  great  a consolation!  what 
reasons  for  confidence!  how  great  an  incitement  to 
love ! 

But  yei , wmthersoever  I turn,  Thy  creatures 
awaken  my  faith,  warn  me  of  Thy  presence,  of  Thy 
power,  of  Thy  love,  of  Thy  loveliness.  If  the 
shadow  of  the  object  is  so  pleasant,  so  fair,  so  good, 
what  must  be  the  object  itself? 

Behold!  this  creature  is  pleasing,  that  other 
strong;  this  one  is  fair,  that  one  good:  but  incom- 
parably more  pleasing,  and,  at  the  same  time. 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


258 

stronger,  fairer,  sweeter,  and  everywhere  better  art 
Thou,  O Beloved,  whom  my  soul  loves! 

O Jesus,  My  Saviour  God,  delightful  Paradise 
of  my  heart!  grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that  always 
and  everywhere  I be  mindful  of  Thee,  that  I love 
Thee  always  and  everywhere  present. 

Make  my  heart  a pure  and  holy  dwelling,  wherein 
I may  find  Thee,  possess  Thee,  enjoy  Thee,  for  the 
sanctification  of  my  soul,  and  the  ever-enduring 
glory  of  Thy  heart. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  TEMPTED 

IN  THE  DESERT,  TEACHES  US  EVER  TO  PRESERVE 

PEACE  OF  HEART. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  when  I went 
away  from  the  Jordan,  I was  led  by  the  Spirit  into 
the  desert.  Behold  a sight,  which  filled  the  An- 
gels themselves  with  admiration. 

For,  removed  from  human  society,  dwelling 
among  the  wild  beasts  of  the  wdlderness,  I passed 
My  days  and  nights  in  fasting  and  austerity,  ex* 
posed  to  all  the  changes  of  the  weather. 

My  Heart  persevered  in  divine  communings  with 
My  heavenly  Father,  in  sublime  contemplation,  in 
ceaseless  prayer. 

Meanwhile,  forgotten,  or  even  insulted  by  the 
world,  I was  assailed  by  Satan  in  wonderful  ways: 
yea,  I was  even  seized  by  him,  carried  elsewhere* 
and  variously  and  exceedingly  tempted. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


259 


What  impelled  Me  to  undergo  these  things,  if 
not  the  love  of  My  Heart,  that  I might  console 
thee  My  Child,  and  teach  thee  by  My  example  ? 

Taught  and  encouraged  by  this,  thou  needest  not 
wonder,  if,  in  thy  condition  of  life,  thou  art  tempted 
by  the  demon,  or  annoyed  by  the  world:  neither 
shouldst  thou,  on  account  of  human  events,  or  the 
devil’s  assaults,  lose  thy  peace  of  heart. 

Naught  of  all  this  world  could  disturb  or  dis- 
quiet My  Heart*  but,  ever  tranquil  and  at  rest, 
with  a firm  Will  turning  Itself  away  from  the  ob- 
jects cast  before  It,  It  went  on  in  peace. 

2.  My  Child,  do  thou  with  all  diligence  aspire 
to  this  holy  peace,  and  follow  it  up  with  all  care. 

Blessed  is  the  good  soul  that  keeps  herself  in 
true  peace!  In  such  a one  I abide  as  in  My  own 
kingdom:  in  her  heart  I find  My  delight  as  on  a 
throne. 

My  Heart  loves  to  communicate  Itself  to  a tran- 
quil heart;  because  there  Its  Inspirations  are  heard, 
are  fostered,  and  bring  forth  fruit. 

If  thou  desirest  to  commit  the  fewest  faults  pos- 
sible, if  thou  desirest  to  derive  profit  from  thy  very 
faults,  if  thou  desirest  to  practice  virtues,  in  a proper 
manner,  keep  thy  peace  of  heart. 

If  thou  wishest  usefully  to  resist  the  temptations 
of  the  devil,  and  to  bring  to  naught  the  wicked  at- 
tempts of  hell,  be  in  peace,  and  continue  therein. 

3.  The  enemy, — knowing  that  he  can  do  little 
against  a soul,  so  long  as  she  keeps  herself*  in  this 
holy  peace, — strives  in  every  way  to  trouble  her. 

For  this  purpose,  he  sets  sometimes  every  power 
in  motion,  and  stirs  it  up:  he  excites  the  imagina- 
tion, he  calls  out  the  passions,  he  suggests  many 


26o 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


things  contrary,  now  to  this  virtue,  then  to  that; 
at  one  time  he  assails  by  flattery,  at  another  by 
fright;  sometimes  he  persists  stubbornly. 

If  things  of  this  kind  befall  thee,  My  Child,  be 
not  uneasy,  do  not  lose  thy  peace.  So  long  as  thou 
continuest  in  a holy  peace,  all  is  safe:  but  if  thou 
beginnest  to  be  troubled,  thou  beginnest  also  to  be  in 
danger:  and  although,  by  divine  grace,  thou  with- 
holdest  thyself  from  a wilful  consent,  yet  the  enemy 
has  gained  enough  to  be  satisfied  for  the  present. 

He  does  not  think  that  he  can  overthrow  thee  in 
the  first  assault,  but  that,  by  degrees,  if  he  be  able 
to  disturb  thy  heart,  he  may  worry  thee,  weaken 
thee,  and  so  at  last  destroy  thee. 

Beware,  therefore,  that  thou  be  not  disturbed,  by 
whatsoever  temptation,  or  for  how  long  soever  a 
time,  thou  mayst  be  assailed. 

4.  My  Child,  let  not  thy  heart  be  troubled,  what- 
ever may  happen.  The  peace  of  the  heart  is  not 
to  be  lost  for  aught  of  this  world. 

Although  thou  mayst  have  rendered  thyself 
guilty  of  some  defect  or  sin,  even  then  be  thou  nol 
disturbed  in  heart.  For,  if  thou  troublest  thyself 
after  committing  a fault,  dost  thou  thereby  afford 
any  remedy  to  the  evil?  On  the  contrary,  thou 
committest  a fault  more  dangerous  than  the  first. 

Wherefore,  after  an  offense  has  been  unnappily 
committed,  be  not  annoyed  by  troubles,  nor  lose 
thou  courage:  but,  by  an  act  of  humble  love,  throw 
thyself  with  a contrite  heart  upon  My  Heart,  that 
thy  fault  may  be  consumed  by  this  divine  fire,  and 
thy  heart  be  made  clean. 

Above  all,  My  Child,  a firm  and  unruffled  peace 
of  heart  is  necessary,  when,  for  the  greater  glory 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


26l 


of  My  Heart,  and  thy  own  greater  good,  thou  art 
suffered  to  be  oppressed  by  inward  desolateness; 
whereby  the  understanding  is  wrapped  in  darkness, 
and  the  will  feels  itself  pushed  on  to  evil,  so  that 
sometimes  thou  seemest  abandoned  to  thyself  alone, 
and  to  a stubborn  enemy. 

If  in  that  state  thou  givest  thyself  up  to  mental 
perturbation,  thou  wilt  render  vain  the  intention 
of  My  Heart,  and  run  great  risk — not  only  of  de- 
priving thyself  of  the  proffered  treasure  of  merits, 
and  a sublime  degree  of  holiness, — but  also  of  going 
astray,  and  of  falling. 

But  if,  with  a quiet  and  undaunted  heart,  thou 
goest  obediently  onward,  whithersoever  My  Spirit 
may  lead  thee;  and  instead  and  despite  of  thy  own 
feeling,  thou  followest  His  guidance,  thou  shalt 
pass  through  the  ordeal  unhurt,  and  come  out  of 
it  more  perfect. 

5.  In  exterior  things  also,  much  will  occur  to 
move  and  trouble  thy  heart,  unless  it  be  well  es- 
tablished in  peace. 

It  will  happen,  that  thou  findest  men  unfaithful, 
nay  more,  at  times,  opposed  to  thee, — even  those 
that  are  bound  to  thee  by  the  obligation  of  grati- 
tude, friendship,  station  or  office. 

If  thy  peace  rests  upon  the  dispositions  or  doings 
of  mortals,  or  depends  thereon,  it  will  be  exposed 
to  sad  vicissitudes. 

Many  judge  accordingly  as  their  heart  is  affected: 
therefore,  it  is  to  be  expected  that  they  will  not 
rarely  think  ill  of  thee,  will  find  fault  with  thy 
doings,  will  condemn  thy  eager  pursuit  of  an  in- 
terior life;  in  short,  will  try  thy  virtue  in  various 
ways. 


262 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


When  these  things  happen,  My  Child,  suffer  not 
thy  heart  to  be  troubled:  but  remain  in  peace,  and 
allow  everything  to  pass,  precisely  as  thou  allowest 
the  clouds  to  pass  over  thy  head. 

And  truly,  of  what  avail  would  it  be  to  thee  to 
be  troubled  by  these  matters?  Shouldst  thou  not 
add  a burden,  and  reap  bitterness  as  the  fruit  of 
thy  toil  ? 

Accustom  thyself  to  bear  patiently  things  ad- 
verse, to  hear  in  silence  what  is  unpleasant,  to  be 
quiet  among  the  boisterous,  to  remain  tranquil 
whilst  the  world  is  blustering. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — But.  O Lord  Jesus, 
how  hard  it  seems  in  practice,  when  temptations 
annoy  me  inwardly,  whilst  I long  to  serve  Thee 
faithfully;  or  when  the  torments  of  adverse  circum- 
stances and  men  assail  me,  whilst  I mean  well;  not 
to  feel  them,  not  to  be  troubled  by  them!  Verily, 
O Lord,  this  seems  impossible  to  me. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  it  is  no  evil  to 
feel  things  which  are  burthensome,  or  capable  of 
disturbing  the  heart:  thou  must  needs  feel  them 
to  be  able  to  resist  them. 

It  is  certainly  impossible  not  to  feel  them,  how 
pious  soever  thou  mayst  be.  For  piety  does  neither 
destroy  nor  blunt  the  powers  of  the  soul;  but,  on 
the  contrary,  it  renders  them  more  pure  and  perfect. 

Neither  is  it  possible  that  the  inferior  part  of 
the  heart  be  not  sometimes  affected  thereby.  But 
these  emotions,  unless  they  be  consented  to  by  the 
superior  part,  can  by  no  means  harm  thee  : nay 
more,  they  may  be  useful  to  establish  thy  peace  the 
more  solidly;  since,  the  more  victories  thou  gainest 
over  the  inferior  part,  the  more  subject  and  tran- 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


263 


quil  thou  wilt  keep  it,  and  the  greater  safety  thou 
wilt  enjoy. 

But  yet,  it  is  ever  in  thy  power  to  preserve  thy- 
self in  peace.  For — since  thou  possessest  free- 
will, and  receivest  ever  a sufficient  grace — neither 
the  malice  of  hell,  nor  the  wickedness  of  men,  nor 
any  adversity  can  disturb  thy  heart,  unless  itself  be 
willing. 

It  depends,  therefore,  on  thyself  alone,  My  Child, 
ever  to  possess  this  good,  which  is  so  great,  that, 
next  to  the  state  of  grace,  it  is  the  greatest  good 
of  this  life. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yea,  Lord  Jesus, 
so  it  is  assuredly.  Teach  me,  then,  I beseech  Thee, 
the  way  of  holy  peace,  which  Thou  didst  show  me 
to  be  so  useful  and  necessary  for  all  things. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  many  there  are 
who  say  much  about  the  means  of  obtaining  and 
preserving  peace;  but  I say:  learn  ve  of  Me,  be- 
cause I am  meek  and  humble  of  Heart,  and  ye  shall 
find  rest — the  perfection  of  peace. 

First  then,  a virtuous  heart  alone — which,  living 
in  grace,  strives  to  imitate  the  virtues  of  My  Heart 
— can  possess  true  peace,  because  there  is  no 
peace  for  the  wicked. 

Again,  a humble  heart,  which  is  satisfied  with 
holding  an  inferior  place  among  men,  and  which, 
distrustful  of  self,  has,  in  every  difficulty,  recourse 
to  Me — can  alone  preserve  an  undisturbed  peace. 

Finally,  a heart  enlivened  by  charity,  which  is 
united,  or  at  least  resigned,  to  the  divine  Will,  can 
alone  enjoy,  without  interruption,  the  sweetness  of 
holy  peace,  and  persevere  securely  therein. 

If  thou  art  perfectly  imbued  with  the  sentiments 


264 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


of  My  Heart,  so  that,  for  love  of  a more  complete 
resemblance  to  Me,  and  a proof  of  a more  disinter- 
ested love,  thou  choosest,  according  to  the  divine 
good  pleasure,  to  suffer  with  Me  in  this  world: 
then,  My  Child,  wilt  thou  overflow  with  the 
plenty  of  a most  delightful  peace,  enjoy  a continued 
tranquillity,  in  spite  of  all  the  changes  of  sensible 
things;  and  thou  wilt  be  ever  jubilant  with  a 
cheerful  heart;  because  the  very  source,  whence 
the  heart  is  wont  to  be  troubled,  shall  strengthen  it 
in  thee. 

Behold,  My  Child,  the  way  to  true  peace,  which 
leads  up  by  degrees  even  to  perfection.  Blessed 
are  they  that  walk  therein.  Outside  of  it  can  be 
found  no  real,  no  solid,  no  lasting  peace. 

If  thou  possessest  not  a virtuous  heart,  resigned 
to  the  divine  Will  by  humility  and  love,  do  what’ 
soever  thou  wilt,  go  whithersoever  thou  choosest, 
nowhere  shalt  thou  find  the  happiness  of  peace. 

When  the  heart  is  not  well-disposed  within, 
neither  the  shunning  of  occasions,  nor  the  change 
of  places,  nor  the  loneliness  cf  living,  nor  spiritual 
books,  nor,  in  fine,  the  counseling  of  men  can  give 
true  peace. 

8.  Remember,  My  Child,  that  the  causes  of  in- 
ward trouble  do  not  lie  in  objects  outside  of  thee; 
but  within  thee,  in  the  ill-ordered  dispositions  of 
the  heart.  Whenever  thou  dost  no  longer  allow 
these  causes  to  exist  within  thyself,  outward  objects 
will  cease  to  be  an  occasion  of  trouble. 

Now,  there  are  as  many  causes  that  can  make 
thee  lose  thy  peace  as  there  are  ill-regulated  affec- 
tions of  the  heart.  And  not  only  do  the  affections 
' o?  e/i / cr  vain  things  belong  to  this  class,  but  also 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


265 


those  for  good  and  holy  objects,  if  indulged  in  con- 
trary to  the  divine  good  pleasure. 

Wherefore,  so  soon  as  thou  detectest  aught  inor- 
dinate within  thyself,  thou  shouldst  persist  in  the 
use  of  prayer,  special  self-examination,  and  other 
fit  remedies,  that  thou  mayst,  quietly  and  effec- 
tually, cast  it  out  of  thy  heart. 

How  many,  even  virtuous  souls,  there  are  that 
anxiously  seek  after  peace — using  for  this  purpose 
various  means,  and  these  no  bad  means — and  yet 
find  only  greater  uneasiness;  because  they  proceed 
in  an  unorderly  manner,  longing  too  much  or  too 
eagerly  for  the  end  of  the  trouble  which  they  feel, 
or  for  the  obtaining  of  rest  after  which  they  sigh, 
or  because  they  annoy  themselves  in  the  use  of  the 
means,  or  desire  to  experience  a sensible  peace! 

Seek  thou  peace  in  a peaceful  manner;  and,  as 
it  is  to  be  found  in  the  superior  part  of  the  heart 
— where  the  rational  will  presides,  under  faith  and 
grace — possess  and  preserve  it  there. 

Thus,  My  Child,  thou  shalt  be  able  to  enjoy  con- 
stantly a holy  peace,  My  peace,  which  is  the  privi- 
lege of  every  true  Disciple  of  My  Heart,  the 
seasoning  of  prosperity,  the  soother  of  adversity, 
the  chief  of  all  blessings;  in  short,  the  sweet  and 
necessary  means  of  perfection  and  holiness. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  God  of 
peace,  and  Father  of  all  consolation!  Oh!  how  I 
desire,  how  I long  for  peace,  Thy  peace,  so  sweet 
and  holy! 

Let  others,  who  wish  for  them,  possess  the  other 
good  things  of  life;  to  me,  I beseech  Thee,  give 
Thou  peace,  for  me  the  greatest  good  of  this  life, 
embracing  all  I desire. 


266 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Grant  me  kindly,  to  make  a proper  use  of  the 
means  appointed,  that  thus  I may  become  a true  Dis- 
ciple of  Thy  Heart, — ever  peaceful  in  meekness  and 
humbleness  of  heart. 

O Prince  of  peace,  most  sweet  Jesus!  Whose 
delight  it  is  to  reign  in  a pure  and  quiet  heart;  so 
establish  Thy  kingdom  in  my  heart  that  it  be  never 
disturbed,  but  constantly  strengthened  more  and 
more  until  Thou  admittest  me  to  rule  with  Thee 
in  heavenly  bliss,  where,  with  the  Angels  and  Saints, 
Thou  reignest  in  peace  everlasting. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  ENTER- 
ING UPON  HIS  PUBLIC  LIFE,  TEACHES  US  ZEAL 

FOR  SOULS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  God  sent  His 
Son  into  the  world,  that  the  world  may  be  saved  by 
Him. 

Do  not  then  wonder,  if  zeal  for  souls  was  ever 
pressing  and  incessantly  urging  on  My  Heart,  that 
It  might  spread  the  kingdom  of  divine  love  over 
the  hearts  of  men,  by  every  means  which  My  heav- 
enly Father  had  placed  at  Its  disposal. 

Hitherto  I had  remained  hidden  in  solitude,  as  it 
were  to  prepare  Myself  for  the  work,  and  to  teach 
all  the  Disciples  of  My  Heart  that  they  must  first 
have  an  ardent  zeal  for  themselves  before  they  can 
orofitablv  exhibit  zeal  for  their  neighbor. 


/ 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


267 


Behold!  whilst  I was  sanctifying  Myself  for  the 
salvation  of  souls,  how  often,  and  with  how  great 
a fervor  of  Heart,  was  I wont  to  pray  for  them,  that 
they  might  live  for  the  Lord  their  God,  do  no  evil, 
and  make  progress  in  virtue! 

I also  associated  with  Me  Disciples  and  Apos- 
tles, whom,  filled  with  the  Spirit  of  My  zeal,  I 
cheered  on;  to  whom  I communicated  My  inten- 
tions; upon  whom  I looked  rejoiced  in  Heart,  be- 
cause they  applied  themselves  strenuously  to  the 
salvation  of  souls. 

I went  around,  teaching,  and  speaking  of  the 
kingdom  of  God, — seizing  every  opportunity,  in 
private  and  in  public,  to  induce  men  to  do  better. 

The  example  of  My  life  shone  forth,  like  a light 
that  had  risen  for  a people  seated  in  darkness.  For 
I went  about  doing  good  to  all,  and  manifesting 
to  every  one  the  humility  and  charity  of  My 
Heart. 

How  greatly  they  were  edified  and  moved  when 
they  beheld  Me  toiling  all  day  for  their  advantage 
and  salvation;  and,  in  the  mean  time,  frequently 
withdrawing  from  the  multitude,  that,  for  a little 
while,  1 might  pray  alone!  When  they  learned 
that,  after  the  labors  and  journeys  of  the  day — 
whilst  My  wearied  Apostles  refreshed  themselves 
by  nightly  slumbers — I Myself  was  wont  to  spend 
the  night  in  prayer! 

Finally,  since  all  power  in  heaven  and  on  earth 
had  been  given  to  Me,  I employed  the  same  for  the 
exercise  of  the  zeal  of  My  Heart,  for  the  divine 
glory,  for  the  gaining  of  souls;  and  I wrought  as 
many  miracles  as  were  necessary  and  proper 
the  salvation  of  all. 


268 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Behold,  My  Child,  the  means  which  the  zeal  of 
My  Heart  employed  to  win  souls.  Are  not  the 
same  means  at  thy  disposal,  in  whatever  state  of 
life  thou  mayst  be?  use  them,  therefore,  earnestly 
for  My  glory  and  the  salvation  of  souls 

2.  Do  thou  frequently  pray;  and,  in  the  spirit 
of  prayer,  offer  some  mortifications — little  and  light 
though  they  be — some  works  of  piety  and  mercy, 
thy  spiritual  exercises,  and  even  thy  ordinary  occu- 
pations for  this,  that  My  straying  children — who 
are  miserably  pining  away  in  the  far-off  country, 
either  of  infidelity,  heresy,  or  sin — making,  at  last, 
a better  use  of  their  freedom,  may  rejoice  My  Heart 
by  their  happy  return;  moreover,  that  the  good 
may  advance  in  virtue,  may  strive  after  better  gifts, 
and  continue  to  aspire  to  perfection. 

O,  if  thou  didst  know  how  powerful  prayer  is  for 
the  salvation  of  souls!  How  many  interior  persons 
there  are,  and  they  too  secluded  from  intercourse 
with  the  world,  who,  individually,  by  prayer  alone, 
have  snatched  thousands  of  souls  from  infidelity, 
heresy  or  sin,  and  raised  them  to  bliss  everlasting! 
Understand,  then,  My  Child,  what  thou  mayst  effect 
by  prayer. 

Try  to  inspire  some  persons  with  zeal;  they  thus 
become  thy  disciples  and  apostles,  whom  thou  send- 
est  in  quest  of  souls. 

Thus  thou  wilt  perform  many  things,  not  by  thy- 
self alone,  but  also  through  others;  who,  in  turn, 
will  animate  and  send  others;  and,  in  this  manner, 
transmit  them  from  generation  to  generation. 

Be  eager  to  speak  frequently  on  subjects  that 
breathe  piety;  which  promote  edification,  and  ren- 
der virtue  attractive.  How  many  are  there  now  in 


CHAPTER  XVII.  269 

heaven  who  owe  the  occasion  of  their  everlasting 
felicity  to  some  pious  conversation  ? 

It  is,  indeed,  true,  My  Child,  that  thou  shouldst 
not  be  importunate;  so  as  to  deter  thy  neighbor 
from  virtue,  rather  than  draw  him  to  it;  but  a gen- 
uine and  fervent  zeal  knows  how  to  employ  a holy 
dexterity,  to  produce  and  employ  fit  opportunities 
of  conversing  on  subjects  of  piety. 

Wonderfully  effective  is  good  example.  It  gives 
life  and  power  to  all  other  outward  means.  Take 
this  away,  and  what  can  all  the  rest  effect?  It  may 
cause  a noise  to  the  senses,  it  cannot  move  the 
heart. 

By  the  example  of  thy  life,  therefore,  do  thou 
show  forth  the  incomparable  delights  of  My  love; 
prove  to  thy  neighbor  that  he,  who  lovingly  serves 
Me,  is,  even  in  this  world,  most  happy.  Thus  thou 
shalt,  in  some  manner,  force  thy  neighbor  to  taste 
and  experience  how  pleasant  is  the  service  of  My 
Heart — the  service  of  My  love. 

If  thou  canst  not  work  miracles,  so  as  to  suspend 
the  laws  of  the  universe,  thou  canst,  by  co-operat- 
ing with  divine  grace,  perform  wonders.  Why?  is  it 
not  wonderful,  nay  prodigious,  that,  for  pure  love  of 
Me,  thou  overlookest  thy  own  interest,  that  thou 
mayst  have  a (.are  of  that  of  others  ? thou  returnest 
good  for  evil?  esteemest  thyself  blissful  with  Me, 
in  the  midst  of  humiliations  ? " 

These  and  the  like  prodigies  of  grace,  My  Child, 
have  sometimes  moved  hearts  that  had  resisted  all 
other  means,  and  induced  them  to  pursue  a better 
course. 

3.  In  every  place,  and  at  all  times,  My  Child,  be 
thou  full  of  zeal  for  souls;  so  that  whosoever  ap- 


270 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


proaches  thee  may  feel  an  incentive  to  virtue  or 
perfection. 

Do  not  believe  that  thou  art  a true  Disciple  of 
My  Heart,  if  thou  hast  no  zeal,  no  efficacious  will 
for  the  salvation  and  perfection  of  souls.  But  if 
thou  art  desirous  of  proving  in  deed,  that  thou 
really  lovest  and  followest  My  Heart,  foster  an  ar- 
dent zeal. 

What  canst  thou  do  more  pleasing  to  My  Heart 
than  to  labor  at  the  salvation  and  perfection  of 
souls — created  to  love  and  glorify  Me  for  ever- 
more? 

If  thou  sendest  only  one  soul  to  heaven,  thou 
givest  Me  more  glory  than  all  men  together,  on 
earth,  have  ever  given  Me,  or  can  ever  procure  for 
Me.  For,  whatever  glory  mortals,  on  earth,  give 
Me,  is  limited  by  the  number  of  acts  which  are  at 
last  finished:  but  the  glory  which  a blessed  soul, 
in  heaven,  gives  Me — since  it  is  ever-enduring — 
is  equivalent  to  a number  of  acts  to  which  there 
shall  be  no  end  forever. 

Consider,  My  Child,  how  greatly  I valued  the 
salvation  of  souls,  since  for  this  object  I came  down 
from  heaven;  sought  it  through  incessant  and  ar- 
duous labors  and  hardships;  and,  lastly,  sacrificed 
Mv  very  life  for  the  same. 

Oh,  if  thou  didst  know  the  worth  of  a soul,  with 
how  great  a zeal  for  her  salvation  wouldst  thou 
be  inflamed!  Learn  what  she  is  worth,  by  the 
price  at  which  I ransomed  her. 

Save  a soul,  and  behold!  thou  shalt  have  per- 
formed a deed  incomparably  more  precious  than 
if  thou  hadst  gained  this  whole  world,  with  all  its 
possessions. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


271 


My  Child,  if  thou  savest  the  soul  of  thy  neigh- 
bor, thou  freest  thy  own:  for  he  that  shall  cause  a 
sinner  to  turn  from  the  error  of  his  way,  thall  save 
his  own  soul  from  death,  and  cover  a multitude  of 
sins. 

How  great  a joy  shall  it  be  to  thee,  My  Child, 
after  this  life,  to  behold  in  heaven  the  Elect,  who, 
after  grace,  owe  to  thee — some  their  heavenly 
bliss,  others  the  hight  of  their  sanctity,  and  a cor- 
responding everlasting  glory;  and  who  will  repay 
thee  with  a thousand  thanksgivings  forever  ! 

Verily,  the  help  in  the  salvation  and  perfection 
of  souls  is  not  only  the  most  excellent  of  all  things 
human,  but  even  the  most  godlike  of  all  things 
divine. 

4.  Pray  frequently,  that'  thy  heart  may  be  en- 
dowed with  a true  zeal  — one  which  humility  sup- 
ports, charity  stimulates,  science  shapes,  discretion 
guides  and  perseverance  strengthens. 

Take  heed,  lest  thou  suffer  thyself  to  be  ani- 
mated with  a zeal  which  springs,  not  from  grace 
in  a meek  and  humble  heart,  but  from  nature,  un- 
der the  influence  of  some  passion.  He  that  is  led 
by  this  zeal,  whilst  he  endeavors  to  root  out  sins, 
multiplies  them;  and  whilst  he  burns  to  make 
others  better  in  deed,  renders  them  worse  in  heart. 

Strive,  as  much  as  thou  morally  canst,  every- 
where to  correct  what  is  evil,  and  to  promote  what 
is  good.  But,  whilst  thou  art  doing  what  is  in  thy 
power,  endure  patiently  whatsoever  thou  art  un- 
able to  correct  or  improve — intrusting  all  things 
to  My  divine  Providence,  and  praying  that  all  may, 
at  last,  serve  for  My  greater  glory. 

My  Child,  if  the  work  of  thy  zeal  do  not  succeed 


272 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


at  the  first  attempt,  try  again  and  again.  It  hap- 
pens that  men — listening  secretly  to  the  evil  spirit, 
or  lulled  to  sleep  by  lukewarmness — at  first 
scarcely  hearken  to  what  is  better;  but  that  after- 
ward— when  the  good  Spirit,  by  means  of  interior 
remorse,  repeats  what  they  have  heard,  and  ex- 
horts them  from  within — the  zeal  of  the  zealous 
laborer  urging  them  on,  and  grace  moving  them, 
they  turn  and  surrender. 

So  long  as  I wait,  so  long  as  I endure  a mortal, 
thou  shouldst  by  no  means  despair  of  him.  If  he 
is  an  unbeliever  now,  how  knowest  thou  whether 
he  will  not  soon  be  a believer?  If  he  is  a heretic 
at  present,  whence  knowest  thou  that  he  will  not 
soon  follow  Catholic  truth?  If  a schismatic  to-day, 
he  may  be  united  to  the  Church  to-morrow. 

Paul  was  in  the  morning  a persecutor  of  the 
Church;  in  the  evening  he  was  a Vessel  of  election. 
Magdalen  was  a sinner  in  the  city  on  one  day;  on 
the  following  she  was  a model  of  every  virtue, — a 
Seraph-hke  lover  of  My  Heart. 

How  many  there  are,  who,  seemingly  lost  be- 
yond all  hope,  in  their  errors  or  sins,  were  yet  con- 
verted, and  found  the  happy  life  of  grace  in  this 
world  and  the  blissful  life  of  glory  in  the  next? 
Has,  then,  the  power  of  grace  grown  less?  has 
man’s  free-will  become  extinct? 

5.  If,  in  spite  of  thy  endeavors,  men  be  unwilling 
to  be  converted,  do  not  lose  thy  peace  of  heart. 

Imitate  the  holy  Guardian  Angels,  who,  after 
having  done  whatever  they  should  and  could  have 
done — if  the  men  committed  to  their  charge  do 
not  repent  nor  improve — remain  equally  peaceful, 
equally  blissful. 


CHAPTER  XVII, 


273 


If  there  be  any  who  do  not  avail  themselves  of 
the  efforts  of  thy  zeal  for  the  good  of  their  souls, 
these  endeavors  shall  not  be  less  rewarded;  since, 
with  Me,  an  efficacious  will  is  reputed  equal  to  suc- 
cess. 

It  is  thy  duty  to  water  the  plants  of  grace — not 
to  give  them  increase.  Water  them,  therefore,  and 
labor  cheerfully,  and,  whether  or  not  thou  seest 
an  increase,  thou  shalt  never  toil  without  profit  to 
thyself,  and  honor  to  Me. 

6 Meanwhile,  My  Child,  thou  must  take  heed, 
lest,  whilst  thou  art  laboring  to  save  others,  or  to 
make  them  perfect,  thou  suffer  thyself  to  become  a 
castaway  or  a disregarder  of  thy  own  perfection. 

In  thy  heart  believe  that  they,  to  whose  spiritual 
good  thou  appliest  thyself,  are  already  better  than 
thyself,  or  that  they  shall  be  so  some  day:  and  how 
much  good  soever  thou  effectest  in  souls,  deem  thy- 
self no  more  than  a cymbal,  which,  without  an- 
other’s aid,  cannot  give  forth  a sound. 

The  more  disinterestedly  thou  shalt  have  Me  for 
thy  aim,  and  the  more  humbly  thou  shalt  think 
concerning  thyself,  the  more  fit  shalt  thou  be  to 
promote  the  salvation  and  perfection  of  souls. 

For  I select  weak  instruments  of  this  kind- 
weak  in  their  own  eyes — to  perform  My  own  great 
works;  that  no  one  may  glory  in  his  strength,  but 
that  to  Me  may  be  given  all  the  honor  and  glory. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — It  is  not,  then, 
enough,  Lord  Jesus,  that  I alone  love  Thee:  it  is 
necessary  that  others  also  love  Thee;  that  all  serve 
Thee.  For  Thou  art  supremely,  Thou  art  for  every 
reason,  worthy  of  the  love  of  all  hearts. 

O Tesusl  if  men  knew  Thee,  would  they  ever 


274 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


offend  Thee?  Would  they  not  love  Thee  with 
their  whole  heart  ? 

How  sweet  a labor,  to  win  hearts  to  Thee!  how 
angelic  an  employment!  how  godlike  a work! 

Who  will  grant  me,  to  travel  over  the  whole 
earth,  to  captivate  all  hearts,  to  enkindle  them  with 
love  for  Thee! 

Oh  would,  most  sweet  Jesus,  that  I held  posses- 
sion of  all  hearts,  that  I might  devote  them  all  to 
Thee,  consecrate  them  to  Thy  love ! 

Receive,  I beseech  Thee,  the  desire  of  my  heart, 
whereby  I long  to  be  able  to  secure  for  Thee,  upon 
earth,  as  great  a love  from  all  men  as  Thy  angels 
and  Saints  show  Thee  in  heaven. 

Let  me  become,  I entreat  Thee,  the  apostle  of 
Thy  Heart,  that  I may  spread  Thy  love  everywhere; 
that,  with  a ready  and  generous  heart,  I may  spend 
my  labor,  my  pains,  my  every  means,  and,  over  and 
above,  spend  myself,  for  souls  that  may  love  and 
glorify  Thee  through  all  eternity. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  PRESENT 
AT  THE  MARRIAGE-FEAST  IN  CANA,  TEACHES  US 
SPIRITUAL  JOYFULNESS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  as  I came  for 
the  salvation  of  all,  I became  all  to  all,  that  I might 
gain  all. 

Light  is  pleasing  to  all,  a source  of  gladness, 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


275 


diffusing  heat  and  life.  Such  was  I , the  Light  of 
the  world:  such  was  My  Life,  which  manifested  the 
joy,  the  love,  the  cheerfulness  of  My  Heart. 

Search  carefully  all  things,  My  Child,  nowhere 
shalt  thou  find  Me  surly;  nowhere  shunning,  or 
driving  away  the  people  through  moroseness:  but, 
everywhere  cheerful,  gladsomely  dealing  with  men 
according  to  the  divine  good  pleasure — animating 
and  sanctifying  all  things  with  My  Spirit. 

Nay  rather,  behold!  when  invited,  I refused  not 
to  be  present  at  the  Marriage-feast,  together  with 
My  Mother  and  My  Disciples;  and  there  to  rejoice 
in  a holy  manner,  availing  Myself  of  every  oppor- 
tunity to  gain  souls,  and  to  teach  virtue  and  true 
gladness  of  heart. 

By  this  example  of  My  Heart,  the  Saints  were 
taught  to  entertain  a spiritual  joyfulness;  and 
thereby  to  edify  their  neighbor,  and  to  serve  Me 
with  a cheerful  heart. 

They  knew  that  I am  a kind  Father,  that  I love 
lhat  My  children  live  with  their  heart  expanded — 
content  and  happy  in  the  partaking  of  My  blessings. 

Ponder  these  things,  My  Child:  imitate  them, 
that  My  joy  may  be  within  thee. 

2.  Behold  what  this  spiritual  joyfulness  does  and 
accomplishes!  What  is  there  that  gives  Me  here 
greater  honor  than  to  serve  Me  with  a cheerful 
heart;  to  prove,  in  this  manner,  to  the  whole  world, 
that  My  service  is  full  of  sweetness  and  felicity  ? 

Moreover,  the  gladness  of  My  Heart  adorns  vir- 
tue, smooths  difficulties,  softens  hardships,  brightens 
the  understanding,  enlivens  the  will;  in  short, 
makes  the  whole  man  well-disposed  to  everything. 

Without  joyfulness  of  heart,  all  external  good 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


276 

things  contribute  little  to  happiness;  the  powers 
of  the  soul  are  inactive,  the  body  itself  languishes, 
man  is  wretched — even  in  the  midst  of  prosperity. 

By  the  practice  of  spiritual  joyfulness,  thou  wilt 
render  thyself  dear  to  Me,  who  love  him  that  gives 
cheerfully;  useful  to  thy  neighbor,  who  will  be 
pleasantly  stimulated  to  that  which  is  good:  lastly, 
beneficial  to  thy  own  self,  who,  by  this  practice 
alone,  wilt  perform  several  acts  of  virtue. 

What  more?  Behold!  who  is  the  man,  that 
desires  life,  who  loves  to  see  good  days?  Cheer- 
fulness of  heart,  this  is  the  life  of  man;  and  good 
days,  the  best  of  days,  which  are  passed  in  God’s 
grace,  which  is  like  a Paradise  amid  blessings. 

Now,  spiritual  joyfulness  is  a most  certain  mart 
of  the  state  of  grace. 

The  joyfulness  of  the  just,  therefore,  is  present 
felicity,  and  a presage  of  everlasting  bliss. 

3.  What  is  spiritual  joyfulness,  except  the  good 
disposition  of  the  soul — showing  that  for  My  sake, 
she  is  truly  satisfied  ? 

It  is  not,  therefore,  founded  on  nature,  but  on 
grace:  it  does  not  depend  on  the  peculiarity  of 
one’s  character,  but  on  the  disposition  of  the  heart: 
it  has  for  its  object  not  sensual,  but  spiritual  things. 

Worldly  joyfulness  is  hurtful;  it  leads  to  grief 
and  bitter  gnawings  of  the  mind:  natural  joyfulness 
is  inconstant,  subject  to  frequent  sadness:  but 
spiritual  joyfulness  is  steady  and  wholesome. 

A heart  of  good  will,  together  with  grace,  pro- 
duces this  holy  joyfulness;  fervent  piety  gives  it 
expansion:  victory  over  one’s  natural  inclinations 
makes  it  solid. 

4.  The  devil,  who  loves  depression  of  spirits, 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


knowing  how  powerfully  spiritual  cheerfulness  acts 
against  him,  seeks  to  assail  it  by  every  means,  to 
destroy  it  by  false  reasonings,  or  to  diminish  it  by 
vain  subtleties. 

Be  on  thy  guard,  My  Child,  lest  thou  be  caught 
by  him.  If  thou  yieldest  to  this  promoter  of  sad- 
ness, he  will  not  be  satisfied  with  depriving  thee  of 
the  blessings  of  holy  jovfulness,  but,  seeing  thee 
disposed  according  to  his  wishes,  he  will  attack  and 
tempt  thee  in  the  most  dangerous  manner. 

Whatsoever  may  be  suggested,  whatsoever  may 
befall  thee,  give  no  admittance  to  gloominess,  which 
depresses  the  heart.  This  direful  evil  dries  up  the 
very  bones,  stupefies  reason  itself.  Wherever  it 
reigns,  understanding  disappears:  yea,  wherever 
sadness  of  heart  prevails,  every  misfortune  is  found. 

It  may  come  to  pass  occasionally,  My  Child, 
that,  without  knowing  from  what  cause  it  proceeds, 
thou  feelest  thyself  inclined  to  a certain  irksome 
sadness.  When  this  happens,  do  thou  pray  again 
and  again,  stir  up  thy  fervor,  and  employ  other 
suitable  means,  that  thou  mavst  preserve  thy  glad- 
ness of  heart. 

5.  Often  also,  contrary  or  adverse  circumstances 
will  present  themselves,  which  will  naturally  pro- 
duce their  effect  upon  thee.  These,  by  allowing 
thyself  to  be  grieved  in  heart,  thou  wilt  render 
more  burdensome : on  the  other  hand,  by  pre- 
serving a joyful  heart,  thou  wilt  make  them  light. 
Turn  these  things,  therefore,  in  the  best  way  thou 
canst,  to  the  everlasting  good  of  thy  soul;  and, 
with  thy  mind  withdrawn  from  what  is  unpleasant, 
rejoice  supernaturally  over  the  greatness  of  thy 
gain. 


278 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


But  the  things  which  are  especially  wont  tc 
hinder  spiritual  joyfulness  in  a virtuous  soul  are 
the  defects  which  she  commits,  and  without  which 
she  knows  full  well  that  she  cannot  live.  Behold 
here  a delusion:  behold  the  deceit  of  the  enemy, 
whereby  he  is  accustomed  to  do  very  great  harm  to 
the  inexperienced. 

It  depends  on  thee  alone,  My  Child,  to  make 
these  defects — after  they  have  been  committed — 
subservient  to  thy  profit,  and,  consequently,  to  the 
joyfulness  of  thy  heart.  For  it  is  a source  of 
great  advantage,  nay,  of  great  merit,  on  the  one 
hand,  forthwith  to  repent,  through  love  for  Me,  of 
the  faults  committed;  and,  on  the  other,  to  rejoice 
in  the  humiliations  which  follow  these  faults,  be- 
cause My  honor  is  thereby  repaired. 

Finally,  My  Child,  whatever  obstacles  thou  mayst 
find  in  thy  way,  leave  nothing  that  is  right  untried, 
to  guard  against  this  baneful  gloominess.  Beware, 
however,  lest,  whilst  shunning  sadness,  thou  run 
into  it  by  the  other  extreme.  Wherefore,  to  avoid 
it,  do  not  give  thyself  up  to  dissipation,  to  the 
neglect  of  thy  spiritual  exercises,  to  the  pursuit  of 
sensual  delights.  For,  of  the  end  of  such  a ioy, 
mourning  takes  hold. 

6.  My  Child,  after  the  possession  of  the  state  of 
grace,  the  chief  of  the  means  to  enjoy  spiritual 
gladness,  and  to  preserve  the  same,  is  to  be  meek 
and  humble  of  heart,  for  love  of  Me. 

Be  humble,  and  thou  shalt  never  be  cast  down: 
love  fervently,  and  thou  shalt  ever  possess  a joyful 
heart. 

If  thou  followest  the  propensity  or  the  aversion 
of  nature:  if  thou  art  lukewarm  or  careless  in  the 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


279 

things  which  concern  My  service,  even  shouldst 
thou  have  all  the  delights  of  earth,  thou  canst 
never  taste  nor  possess  true  joyfulness  of  heart. 

There  are  also  outward  things  which  contribute 
to  the  joy  of  the  heart:  holy  endeavors  to  cultivate 
spiritual  gladness,  pious  jubilations  by  hymns  and 
canticles,  intercourse  with  those  who  are  spiritu- 
ally joyous,  cheerfulness  in  action,  resignation  in 
suffering,  a holy  freedom  in  one’s  proceeding. 

Pray,  My  Child,  and  strive  to  make  a right  use 
of  these  means,  and  thus  shalt  thou  enjoy  true 
gladness,  compared  to  which  all  other  delight  is 
mere  grief — all  other  gayety,  sadness — all  other 
sweetness,  bitterness. 

This  is  My  joy,  wherein  rejoice  thou  always: 
again,  I say,  rejoice. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  whose 
Heart  is  the  never-failing  fountain  of  exquisite 
gladness,  whence  heaven  draws  as  well  as  earth; 
where,  save  in  Thee,  shall  I find  true  joyfulness  of 
heart  ? 

O most  sweet  Jesus!  who  hast  pity  in  cheerful- 
ness, have  pity  on  me,  Thy  unworthy  Child;  fill 
my  heart  with  holy  gladness. 

Without  Thee,  my  soul  is  like  a field  without 
water,  dry  and  wretched:  Thou  alone  art  true  and 
efficacious  refreshment. 

When  Thy  refreshing  Spirit  is  not  within  me,  dis- 
tasteful is  all  that  creatures  can  offer:  but  when 
Thou  cheerest  up  the  heart,  my  soul  leaps  for  joy; 
and,  in  her  gladness,  bears  all  things  with  ease,  finds 
all  savory,  tastes  sweetness  even  in  what  is  bitter. 

Thus  do  Thou  ever,  I entreat  Thee,  gladden  my 
soul.  Grant  me  a humility  so  solid  that  I be  never 


28o 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


dejected:  so  great  a love  for  Thee,  so  great  a fervor, 
that  ever  joyous  I may  Lve  for  Thee. 

O Jesus,  Beloved  of  my  soul,  my  whole  and  sole 
delight!  let  me  so  serve  Thee  with  a cheerful  heart 
that  I may  honor  Thy  service,  edify  my  neighbor, 
sanctify  myself,  to  the  everlasting  joy  of  Thy  heart. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  CON- 
VERSING WITH  MEN,  TEACHES  US  TO  BEAR  WITH 
THE  DEFECTS  OF  OUR  NEIGHBOR. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  so  long  as  I 
was  seen  upon  earth,  and  conversed  with  men,  I 
was  in  the  midst  of  a wicked  generation. 

How  much  pnde  and  infidelity,  how  much  un- 
cleanness and  iniquity,  thinkest  thou,  did  I be- 
hold— I the  Searcher  of  hearts — in  the  hearts  of 
men,  to  whom  naught,  save  the  world;  naught,  ex- 
cept self-interest,  was  pleasing! 

How  was  My  Heart  moved  at  the  sight  of  men’s 
sinful  ignorance,  unbridled  licentiousness,  forget- 
fulness of  the  things  of  heaven,  anxiety  for  those 
of  earth,  neglect  of  virtue,  the  triumph  of  vice! 

Compare  Me,  My  Child,  with  such  men:  My  hu- 
mility with  their  conceitedness  and  vanity:  My  zeal 
with  their  indifference  and  obstinacy:  My  benefi- 
cence with  their  insensibility  and  ungratefulness:  My 
charity  with  their  listlessness  and  disregard:  in  short, 
all  My  virtues  with  their  defects  and  vices! 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


281 


Understand,  also,  what  disposition  of  Heart  I dis- 
played before  them.  Behold!  whatsoever  they  were, 
I continued  to  live  with  them,  to  converse  with 
them,  to  stay  among  them — without  complaint  or  in- 
dignation of  Heart — yea,  to  show  myself  content. 

If  thou  meditatest  rightly  upon  this  pattern  of 
Lfe,  thou  wilt  learn  to  manifest  similar  sentiments 
of  heart  to  thy  neighbor. 

2.  Thou,  My  Child,  and  all  thy  neighbors,  ye  are 
conjointly  children  of  the  same  heavenly  Father; 
ye  were  conjointly  ransomed  at  the  same  price  of 
My  life,  ye  are  all  to  be  united  forever  in  fellowship 
by  the  same  bond  of  the  love  of  the  Holy  Spirit. 

Ye  are  all  called  to  the  same  kingdom  of  heaven; 
that  there  ye  may  be  made  blissful  in  perfect  peace, 
m the  joy  of  an  everlasting  union. 

See,  therefore,  that  thou  agree  with  them  on  the 
way,  lest  thou  be  hereafter  excluded  from  the  heav- 
enly abode  of  the  Blessed,  and  delivered  up  to  ex- 
terior torturers. 

This  is  My  example;  nay  more,  this  is  My  com- 
mand, that,  carrying  each  other’s  burdens,  ye  love 
one  another,  as  I love  you — with  a supernatural, 
universal,  efficacious  love. 

If  ye  love  Me,  keep  My  command.  If  ye  keep 
the  same,  ye  will  remain  in  My  love. 

He  that  hates  his  brother  is  a murderer:  he  kills 
the  very  soul,  and  that  his  own.  Whosoever  is  an- 
gry with  his  brother,  shall  be  answerable  before  the 
judgment.  He  that  forgives  not,  shall  not  be  for- 
given. He  that  forbears  not,  shall  not  be  forborne. 
For  with  what  measure  ye  mete,  it  shall  be  meas- 
ured to  you  again. 

3.  Remember,  My  Child,  that  thou  art  living— 


282 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


not  among  Angels  but  among  men,  who  cannot  be 
here  below  without  failings. 

Do  not  then  wonder,  if  frail  mortals  err  or  fall: 
but  wonder  at  this,  that,  whilst  thyself  thou  hast 
many  failings,  with  which  others  must  bear,  thou 
darest  sometimes  feel  indignant  at  those  of  others. 

If  thou  bearest  not  wath  another’s  defect,  dost 
thou  not  by  the  very  fact  commit  a fault  and  show 
it,  too? 

Know  that  I sometimes  suffer  well-meaning  and 
virtuous  men  to  be  opposed  to  each  other,  that, 
without  sin,  there  may  be  an  opportunity  of  bear- 
ing with  one  another’s  defects,  of  practising  solid 
virtues,  and  of  acquiring  merits. 

Judge  the  things  of  thy  neighbor  by  thy  own. 
As  thou  desirest  to  be  dealt  with,  so  deal  thou  with 
others:  and  do  not  to  others  what  thou  wouldst 
not  have  done  to  thyself. 

Hast  thou  not  many  things,  My  Child,  from 
which  thou  wouldst  gladly  free  thyself,  and  from 
which  thou  knowest,  by  thy  own  experience,  that 
thou  art  unable  to  free  thyself?  What  thou  suffer- 
est,  therefore,  in  thyself,  even  against  thy  will,  that 
do  thou  likewise  tolerate  in  others;  whom,  if  thou 
hast  any  humility  and  charity,  thou  wilt  suppose  to 
endure  their  own  defects,  in  spite  of  themselves. 

4.  There  are  they  who  willingly  enough  bear 
with  the  defects  of  friends,  and  of  those  whom  they 
find  agreeing  with  themselves  in  taste  and  manners: 
but  who  take  easily  offense  at  the  failings  of  all 
beside.  Now,  wThat  virtue  is  there  in  this?  Do  not 
the  heathen  do  the  same?  Nay  more,  are  not  the 
very  animals,  devoid  of  reason,  accustomed  to  act 
in  the  same  manner  ? 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


283 


How  canst  thou  be  My  Disciple,  if  thou  hast  the 
feelings  of  a pagan:  or,  if  thou  folio  west  simply  an 
animal  instinct  ? 

Be  thou  animated,  My  Child,  with  the  supernat- 
ural charity  of  My  Heart:  whereby  I endured,  and 
loved  all,  enemies  as  well  as  friends,  even  unto  death. 

Passing,  therefore,  over  every  merely  natural 
consideration,  endure  thou  all,  love  all;  make  of 
no  one  an  exception. 

Pray  for  them  that  persecute  and  calumniate 
thee;  bless  them  that  revile  thee;  do  good  to  them 
that  hate  thee;  overcome  evil  by  good. 

Hate  the  evil  which  is  done:  but  beware  lest  thou 
hate  the  man  who  commits  the  same.  How  much 
soever  thou  mayst  detest  the  sin  of  a man,  thou 
art  bound  to  love  the  man  himself. 

5.  The  Saints,  who  followed  not  nature  but  grace, 
did  so  far  clothe  themselves  with  the  sentiments  of 
My  Heart  that  they  endured  and  loved — not  only 
all  in  general,  but  specially  those  that  were  op- 
posed to  them. 

Yet,  My  Child,  they,  too,  were  men;  and,  like 
thyself,  had  the  feelings  of  nature:  but  they  over- 
came nature;  and,  in  spite  of  feeling,  in  their 
greatness  of  soul,  emulated  My  example. 

Come,  Child,  be  courageous,  and,  as  is  becoming 
in  a Disciple  of  My  Heart,  imitate  those  noble  and 
generous  souls. 

When  thou  feelest  indignant  at  the  faults  of  thy 
neighbor,  keep  silence;  neither  suffer  thou  aught 
ill-ordered  to  escape  thy  lips — whereby  thou  mayst 
harm  thyself  as  well  as  thy  neighbor. 

Pray  for  him  in  thy  heart;  and  steadily  refrain 
thy  mind  from  reflecting  on  his  faults. 


284 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Never  grow  weary  of  pardoning  thy  neighbor, 
of  bearing  with  his  faults,  of  loving  him  with  a 
supernatural  affection;  if  with  thy  heart  thou  de- 
sirest  to  follow  My  Heart. 

If  thou  hast  many  and  great  things  to  endure  in 
others,  remember,  Child,  that  I have  undergone 
more  and  greater  things  for  thy  sake:  nay,  that  I 
have  borne  with  more  and  greater  things  in  thee. 

Behold!  I mercifully  forgave  thee  a debt  of  ten 
thousand:  shouldst.  thou  not  then  have  pity  on  thy 
fellow-servant,  as  I also  had  mercy  on  thee? 

Call  to  mind,  My  Child,  how  long,  and  with  how 
great  a goodness  of  Heart,  I have  endured  thee,  and 
how  I do  even  now’  endure  thee:  and  learn  thence, 
how  and  how  far  thou  oughtest  to  bear  with  thy 
neighbor. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  how-  kind 
and  forbearing  hast  Thou  been  towards  me,  yea, 
art  even  now ! How  can  I recall  this  without 
tears  of  affection  and  gratitude! 

How7  wretched  soever  I may  be,  I find  Thy 
Heart  always  open  for  me:  and  yet,  I own  it  to  my 
confusion,  I do  sometimes  close  mine  against  my 
neighbor. 

O Jesus,  meek  and  humble  of  Heart!  w'ho 
knowest  that  I am  less  ready  to  bear  with  the  de- 
fects of  my  neighbor,  because  I love  and  esteem 
myself  too  much:  infuse  into  my  heart,  I beseech 
Thee,  the  humility  and  charity  of  Thy  Heart,  that, 
for  love  of  Thee,  I may  love  every  neighbor  as 
myself. 

Grant  me  grace,  that,  as  often  as  I behold  the 
failings  of  others,  I may  raise  myself  above  nature; 
An(i  that-  bv  a supernatural  principle,  I may  be^ 


CHAPTER  XX.  285 

moved  to  compassion, — not  to  indignation;  to  well- 
wishing, — not  to  aversion. 

Bestow  upon  us,  most  loving  Jesus,  Thy  Spirit, 
the  Spirit  of  charity;  that  we  may  love  one  another, 
and  live  united  by  a holy  peace,  until  we  enter  the 
realms  of  Thy  everlasting  love. 


CHAPTER  XX. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  ACTING 
TOWARD  ALL  WITH  THE  GREATEST  OPEN-HEART- 
EDNESS, TEACHES  US  TO  ACT  WITH  SIMPLICITY* 
IN  REGARD  TO  OUR  NEIGHBOR. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  when  I dwelt 
among  men.  they  wondered  and  wore  astonished, 
that  with  each  and  all  of  them,  I dealt  with  so 
great  a simplicity. 

But  it  wTas  a secret  of  My  Heart.  For  My 
Heart  is  simple,  loves  God,  and,  by  the  same  love, 
all  besides;  holding  one  in  all,  and  all  in  one. 

This  simplicity  of  Heart,  which  I showed  to 
men,  is  the  image  of  My  Spirit, — charity  undivided 
in  itself,  busied  with  many  things,  itself  ever  one. 

Loving  God  and  men  in  the  same  Spirit:  con- 
templating human  misery  and  prosperity;  averting 
evil  and  promoting  good;  perfecting  various  works; 
supporting  the  different  characters  and  dispositions 
of  persons;  passing,  in  one  and  the  same  manner, 
through  varied  and  manifold  circumstances:  and 
all  this  in  the  same  Spirit. 


286 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


By  this  most  pleasing  virtue,  men  were  wonder- 
fully moved.  For  never  had  they  beheld,  nor  even 
conceived  in  their  mind,  so  great  a simplicity 
united  with  so  great  a dignity:  so  uniform  a kind- 
ness allied  to  so  wonder-working  a power. 

In  Me  there  was  no  duplicity,  nothing  feigned, 
no  affected  loftiness  of  speech,  no  artful  manner  of 
acting. 

The  ingenuous  frankness  of  My  Soul  was  ap- 
parent to  all;  My  actions  reflected,  as  it  were,  like 
a mirror,  the  sincerity  of  My  Heart. 

Hence,  My  Child,  men  came  to  Me  of  their  own 
accord,  and  poured  out  their  hearts  before  Me. 
Even  little  children  ran  to  meet  Me;  and  I suffered 
them  to  come  to  Me,  so  that  men  wondered;  I 
spoke  to  them  with  kindness,  I blessed  them;  I 
filled  them,  all  joyous  as  they  were,  with  the  love 
of  virtue. 

2.  By  My  example,  learn  to  make  use  of  a holy 
simplicity  in  regard  to  thy  neighbor, — which  con- 
sists in  drawing  thy  thoughts,  words,  and  deeds, 
from  one  divine  charity,  and  in  referring  to  the 
same  the  thoughts,  words,  and  deeds  of  others. 

In  My  Heart,  the  centre  of  charity,  is  every 
neighbor  to  be  viewed  and  loved. 

Whoever  views  his  neighbor  without  My  Heart, 
easily  divides  his  heart  among  various  merely 
natural  affections,  or  compounds  it  by  means  of 
motives  or  intentions  partly  human. 

But  he  that  views  and  loves  men  in  the  charity 
of  My  Heart,  he,  with  a single  eye,  sees  one  in  all; 
he,  with  a pure  affection,  loves  one  in  all;  he  has 
his  heart  neither  compounded  nor  divided. 

3.  Thus,  then,  be  thou  simple  in  viewing  or  think- 


CHAPTER  XX. 


287 


ing  that  which  is  thy  neighbor’s:  and  do  not  divide 
thy  heart  by  rashly  judging. 

Who  has  established  thee  a judge  of  thy  neigh- 
bor ? Whence  thy  right  to  condemn  him  ? how 
darest  thou  to  cast  off,  by  thy  judgment,  one  whom 
I shield  with  My  Heart,  whom  thou  art  bound  to 
love  as  a brother,  who,  in  My  sight,  may  be,  now 
or  hereafter,  better  than  thyself? 

If  thou  judgest  rashly,  My  Child,  thou  art  inex- 
cusable. For,  if  thou  so  condemnest  another,  dost 
thou  not  condemn  thyself  ? By  rashly  judging 
him  guilty  of  a fault,  thou  renderest  thyself  guilty 
of  a fault. 

Do  not,  however,  confound  a suggestion  with  a 
suspicion,  nor  a suspicion  with  a judgment.  A 
suggestion  is  an  evil  instigation,  which  does  not 
depend  on  man’s  will,  and  therefore,  unless  wilfully 
indulged  in,  is  blameless.  And  what  is  suspicion, 
except,  from  some  doubtful  signs,  to  think  and 
hold  something  as  probable  or  truth-like?  But 
judging  is,  from  a sufficient  reason,  to  decide  and 
believe  something  as  certain. 

Wherefore,  when  there  is  a sufficient  reason  for 
suspecting  or  judging,  the  suspicion  and  the  judg- 
ment are  assuredly  neither  rash  nor  culpable. 

And  if  a sufficient  reason  to  suspect  or  judge  be 
wanting,  without  its  being  remarked,  the  error  is 
invincible  and  guiltless. 

If,  however,  the  care  of  others  be  committed  to 
thy  charge,  it  is  not  only  lawful,  hut  also  necessary, 
whenever  probable  signs  of  evil  aie  given, — that 
thou  have  suspicion  concerning  those  who  are  sub 
ject  to  thee;  that  thus  thou  mayst  prudently  remove 
the  evil,  if  any  be  found  to  exist. 


288 


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For  the  rest,  My  Child,  whatsoever  sign,  word  or 
deed,  thou  dost  observe  in  thy  neighbor,  take  it 
ever  in  good  part;  if  by  any  means  it  can  be  ex- 
cused in  thy  mind,  do  so;  but  if  thou  seest  that  it 
can  in  no  manner  be  excused,  correct  him  by  a 
word  of  chanty,  or  by  a sign  of  disapproval,  if 
prudence  allow  it,  and  certain  fruit  is  expected. 

O,  My  Child ! the  holy  simplicity  of  charity 
thinks  no  evil;  neither  is  it  grieved  because  it  errs, 
when  innocently  it  judges  well,  even  of  what  is  evil. 

4.  Be  thou  also  simple  in  speech,  My  Child. 
Do  not  divide  thy  heart  by  means  of  the  tongue, — 
as  does  the  world,  which,  satisfied  with  outward 
appearances,  boasts  foolishly  of  the  art  of  feigning 
and  dissembling. 

Do  thou,  from  the  treasury  of  a virtuous  heart, 
with  simplicity  present  good  things  to  thy  neighbor. 

Far  removed,  therefore,  from  thy  conversation 
be  all  artfulness,  all  duplicity,  all  craftiness ; where- 
by thy  neighbor  may  be  misled  with  fallacies, 
or  rendered  distrustful  through  fear  of  some  con- 
cealed untruth,  or  scandalized  by  the  evidence  of 
implied  wrongfulness;  or,  lastly,  be  made  to  suffer 
harm  on  account  of  his  credulity. 

My  Child,  whatsoever  thy  lips  utter,  let  it  also 
be  the  sentiment  of  thy  heart.  Does  it,  then,  be- 
hoove thee  to  express  the  inordinate  emotions  of 
the  passions,  if  thou  feelest  these  within  thyself? 
Beware,  lest  thou  draw  such  an  inference:  be  far 
from  such  a belief;  these  emotions  are  not  only  to 
be  suppressed  by  the  lips,  but  also  by  the  heart. 

Be  the  same  to  all;  true  and  holy  simplicity  is 
courteous  to  all,  ever  agreeable,  everywhere  uni- 
form. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


280 


Whatever  be  the  reasons  in  thy  favor,  do  not 
wound  the  union  of  charity,  for  the  sake  of  matters 
which  are  indifferent,  or  do  not  concern  thee.  Re- 
member, that  one  act  of  charity  surpasses  infinitely 
the  multitude  of  all  reasonings. 

If  it  happen  that,  by  a word,  thou  give  offense 
to  thy  neighbor,  humbling  thyself  in  artless  sim- 
plicity, endeavor,  as  soon  as  possible,  to  give  him 
satisfaction,  or  an  excuse.  For  humility  alone  is  a 
reparation  of  wounded  charity. 

5.  Finally,  be  also  simple  in  acting.  Let  there 
appear  in  thee  no  affectation,  nor  carelessness:  be 
thy  whole  exterior  such,  that  it  may  show  the  can- 
dor of  thy  interior. 

Let  all  things,  that  regard  thy  neighbor,  be  done 
in  charity;  which,  although  it  is  one  and  single, 
yet  possesses  many  and  various  acts.  One  and  un- 
divided as  it  is,  it  knows  how  to  unite  many  and 
divided  objects;  to  tolerate  equally  things  unequal, 
and  to  preserve  and  advance  those  which  are  united. 

My  Child,  if  thou  hast  truly  learnt  the  simplic- 
ity of  My  Heart,  thou  wTilt,  with  ease  and  sincerity, 
show  a yielding  charity  to  all, — becoming  honor 
to  every  one;  being  so  disposed,  as  inwardly  to 
give  the  preference  to  others,  and  willing,  with  one 
and  the  same  divine  love,  joyfully  to  render  service 
to  each  one,  according  to  his  position. 

Proceed  with  simplicity,  My  Child,  go  on  straight- 
forward, not  running  to  the  right  nor  to  the  left,  in 
order  to  speculate  about  things  possible;  or  to  in- 
vestigate what  others  may  think  of  thee. 

In  all  things  seek  Me  alone,  whom  thou  shalt 
undoubtedly  find  in  all,  and  in  whom  alone  thou 
shalt  possess  all. 


290 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


6.  Woe  to  the  double-hearted,  who  has  one  thing 
in  his  heart,  another  on  his  lips;  who  keeps  sweet- 
ness on  his  lips,  bitterness  in  his  heart;  who  out- 
wardly professes  sincerity,  and  inwardly  hides 
deceit! 

The  heart  that  enters  the  path  of  deceit  svall 
meet  no  happy  issue:  it  shall  find  neither  the  path 
to  My  Heart,  nor  the  road  to  the  heart  of  the  neighbor: 
it  shall  stray  to  its  own  confusion. 

Duplicity  shall  one  day  be  unvailed,  and  the  hope 
of  the  hypocrite  shall  perish. 

But  blessed  are  the  simple;  for  theirs  is  secure 
peace!  I say  it  again:  Blessed,  because  My  con- 
versation and  familiar  intercourse  is  with  the  simple! 

He  that  walks  in  simplicity,  walks  confidingly, 
and  shall  be  safe. 

7.  Beware,  My  Child,  lest  by  following  simplic- 
ity, thou  dash  thyself  against  imprudence.  Holy 
simplicity  is  artless  indeed,  because  it  is  holy;  but, 
because  it  is  holy,  it  is  also  prudent. 

Be,  therefore,  simple  as  the  dove:  but  also  pru- 
dent as  the  serpent. 

Do  not  lay  open  thy  heart  to  every  one.  Do  not 
unvail  thy  own  affairs  to  thy  neighbor,  except  in 
so  much  "as  wHl-ordered  charity  demands. 

Whatsoever  serves  not  for  common  edification,  or 
is  not  of  an  ordinary  kind,  suffer  thou  to  be  known 
to  none,  except  Myself,  and  to  those  that  hold  My 
place  in  thy  regard. 

Let  not  thy  heart  be  like  a broken  vessel,  which 
cannot  hold  what  is  poured  into  it. 

If  thou  canst  not  keep  a secret,  thou  art  not  only 
unworthy  of  the  name  of  a Disciple  of  My  Heart,  but 
even  of  "the  confidence  of  thy  neighbor;  very  un- 


CHAPTER  XX. 


29I 


worthy  of  the  secrets  of  friends,  most  unworthy  of 
My  own. 

Hast  thou  heard  anything  whispered  against  thy 
neighbor?  Let  it  die  within  thee:  it  shall  not 
cause  thee  to  burst,  My  Child,  neither  shall  it  hurt 
thee  in  any  way. 

A tale-bearer  shall  defile  his  own  soul,  and  be 
hateful  to  others.  For  he  is  a doubly  envenomed 
tool  of  evil. 

To  say  the  truth  is  not  always  lawful,  but  to  tell 
a falsehood  is  never  allowed.  Prudence,  therefore, 
is  necessary,  lest,  by  uttering  what  is  true,  or  by 
saying  what  is  false,  thou  sin  against  charity  and 
other  virtues. 

Under  such  circumstances,  My  Child,  have  thou 
recourse  to  My  Heart:  the  unction  of  Its  charity 
will  teach  thee  in  what  manner  thou  oughtest  to 
proceed. 

Lastly,  pray  that  thou  mayst  obtain  the  spirit  of 
holy  simplicity,  and  cultivate  a virtue,  whereby 
thou  wilt  render  thy  intercourse  wTith  thy  neighbor 
grateful  and  profitable  to  thyself,  as  well  as  to  him, 
and  pleasing  and  honorable  to  Me. 

8.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — Thou,  Lord,  art 
the  model,  the  pattern  of  perfect  simplicity.  Would 
that  I might  become  like  to  Thee! 

O Jesus,  Thou  simple  love!  make  Thou  my 
heart  single,  that  I may  come  as  near  to  Thy  sim- 
plicity as  it  can  be  granted  to  a creature, — by  lov- 
ing one  in  all,  and  all  in  one. 

Render  Thou  my  mind  single,  by  freeing  it  from 
the  different  and  false  principles  of  the  world  and  of 
self-love;  and  by  preserving  it  from  every  evil  sus- 
picion and  rash  judgment;  that  it  may  be  guided 


292 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


by  Thee  alone, — where  things  are  certain,  in  truth; 
and,  where  they  are  doubtful,  in  charity. 

Make  me  wholly  single,  inwardly  and  outwardly, 
that,  having  become  one,  I may  always  and  every- 
where be  uniform, — inferring  all  things  from  Thee 
alone,  and  referring  all  to  Thee  alone,  who  art  the 
beginning  and  end  of  all. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  SHOW- 
ING TO  MEN  THE  SWEETNESS  OF  HUMBLE  CHAR- 
ITV,  LEFT  US  A MODEL  WHICH  WE  SHOULD  FOL- 
LOW. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Hearken,  My  Child, 
and  receive  My  words.  When  of  old,  by  the  Prophet, 
God  spoke  of  His  Son,  who  wTas  to  come  into  the 
world,  He  said:  Behold  My  Servant,  My  Be- 
loved, in  whom  My  soul  is  well  pleased.  I wih 
put  My  Spirit  upon  Him.  He  shall  not  contend, 
nor  cry  out.  The  bruised  reed  He  shall  not  break, 
and  smoking  flax  He  shall  not  extinguish.  In  His 
name  shall  the  nations  hope. 

As  such  I came,  My  Child;  as  such  I was  in  this 
world.  I treated  men  with  so  great  a humility,  so 
great  a charity,  that  I was  called  the  Lamb  of  God, 
and  known  by  that  name. 

See  how  I lived  among  men:  how  I behaved  to- 
ward them.  Although  I was  their  Lord,  I wras  in 
their  midst  as  one  ministering. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


293 


From  all  parts  they  came  hastening  to  Me,  with 
what  ailment  soever  they  might  be  afflicted;  know- 
ing that  to  Me  humility  was  habitual;  mildness, 
natural, — that  goodness  was  the  very  essence  of 
My  Heart. 

And,  indeed,  the  first  or  the  least  sigh  of  any  one, 
who  was  miserable,  moved  My  Heart,  and  awakened 
all  Its  tenderness. 

Did  I ever  cast  off  any  one?  did  I ever  slight 
the  poorest,  or  ever  the  least  of  all?  Did  I ever 
show  a sign  of  dislike  to  any  one?  On  the  con- 
trary, I embraced  and  cherished  all,  with  the  greatest 
marks  of  kindness. 

Consider,  My  Child,  and  reflect,  with  how  great 
a tender-heartedness  I treated  little  children;  with 
what  endearing  and  even-minded  humility  I taught 
the  ignorant;  with  how  steadfast  and  generous  a 
courage  I dealt  with  the  troublesome ; with  how 
glowing  a zeal  with  worldings;  with  how  feeling  a 
composure  with  the  afflicted;  with  how  great  an 
affability  with  sinners;  with  how  holy  a love  with 
the  good;  with  how  humble  a charity  with  all. 

This  humble  charity,  the  characteristic  virtue  of 
My  Heart,  ravished  the  hearts  of  all,  to  such  a de- 
gree, that,  as  the  envious  murmuringly  complained, 
the  whole  world  went  after  Me. 

Verily,  My  Child,  this  humble  charity  of  My 
Heart  overcame  the  whole  world.  For  whence, 
thinkest  thou,  arose  so  wonderful,  so  sudden  a con- 
version of  the  world,  if  not  from  the  secret  unction 
which  moved, — and  the  well-known  goodness  of 
My  Heart,  which  attracted  all? 

Behold  1 as  the  goodness  of  My  Fleart  became 
known,  men  hastened  to  Me  from  every  place,  out 


294 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


of  every  state  of  life,  under  every  disposition  of 
body  and  soul;  and,  even  now,  they  continue  to  do 
so ; because  they  hear  that  the  poor  are  not  spurned 
by  Me;  that  the  afflicted  are  not  forsaken;  that  sin- 
ners are  not  abhorred;  that  the  weeping  Magdalen, 
the  suppliant  woman  of  Canaan,  the  praying  publican, 
the  apostate  Disciple  returning,  the  penitent  thief, 
My  very  torturers,  that  smote  their  breasts,  are 
not  cut  off. 

2.  My  Child,  strive  thou,  with  all  diligence,  to 
follow  this  pattern  of  life,  this  method  of  dealing 
with  men,  and  to  realize  the  same  in  thy  behavior, 
as  a true  Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

Some  Saints,  perfectly  imbued  with  the  senti- 
ments of  My  Heart,  so  behaved,  that  men  could  not 
deal  with  them,  without  being  led  by  their  very 
appearance, — as  by  an  exact  likeness, — to  an  affec- 
tionate remembrance  of  Me. 

Thou  canst  not  deal  with  thy  neighbor  in  an  in- 
different manner:  thou  wilt  produce  in  him  either 
good  or  evil. 

No  one  can  treat  with  men  without  loss,  either 
to  himself  or  to  another ; except  whosoever  is  willing, 
with  a sincere  heart,  to  humble  himself  before  men. 

It  is  frequently  necessary  humbly  to  give  up 
thy  opinion,  if  thou  desirest  to  deal  with  others 
without  disagreement:  nay  more,  often  thou  must 
kindly  embrace  things  unpleasant  to  nature,  if  thou 
wishest  to  live  with  them  without  bitterness. 

Whence  do  dissensions  arise  among  mortals?  Is 
it  not  from  pride,  whereby  one  refuses  to  yield  to 
another?  Whence  bitter  feelings?  Is  it  not  from 
an  inordinate  self-love,  which  corrupts  the  very 
heart  ? 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


295 


Drive  away  pride  from  among  men;  and  behold  I 
with  it  all  human  troubles  will  disappear.  Next, 
expel  self-love;  and  thou  shalt  see  the  delights  of 
heaven  reigning  on  earth. 

If  thou  art  truly  humble,  thou  shalt  captivate  thy 
neighbor;  and  if  thou  burnest  with  a pure  charity, 
thou  shalt  carry  him  along,  to  make  him  use  his 
efforts  to  run  in  the  odor  of  virtues,  which  breathe 
forth  so  sweet  a fragrance. 

3.  Humble  charity  is  mightier  than  all  severity. 
This,  whilst  outwardly  it  may  hinder  evil,  inwardly 
estranges  from  good:  that  on  the  other  hand,  cor- 
rects evil,  and  causes  good  to  be  loved 

Nothing  is  more  easy  in  directing  than  severity 
or  laxity  But  what  is  there  more  dangerous  for 
men  than  the  former?  or  what  more  injurious  to 
Me  than  the  latter? 

They  that  lead  not  an  interior  life,  and,  therefore, 
suffer  themselves  to  be  guided  by  nature,  rather 
than  by  My  Spirit, — are  wont  to  fall  into  the  one 
or  the  other  excess. 

My  Child,  if  thou  art  charged  with  the  care  of 
others,  thou  shouldst  be,  before  all  else,  an  interior 
person.  Whoever  is  not  such,  how  is  he  to  be 
pitied,  when  placed  over  others!  For  he  shall 
doubtless  ill  perform  many  things,  and  do  harm  to 
My  interests  intrusted  to  him;  and  of  all  this  he 
shall  give  a reckoning 

Woe  to  the  religious  Community,  whose  Superior 
is  not  an  interior  person!  For  behold!  it  shall  lan- 
guish in  spirit,  and  fall  away  by  degrees;  since 
every  Community  suffers  most  dangerously  in  its 
head;  and  hence,  the  individuals  composing  the 
same  suffer  fatally  in  the  heart,  by  an  ill-ordered, „ 


296 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


affection  for  creatures, — the  most  dangerous  disease 
of  individuals. 

If  thou  h oldest  My  place  in  regard  to  others, 
thou  must  guide  and  govern  them  by  My  Spirit, 
that  thou  mayst,  in  them  and  through  them,  ad- 
vance My  interests.  If  thou  actest  differently,  thou 
mayst,  perhaps,  promote  thy  own  interests,  not 
Mine, — give  satisfaction  to  thy  own  nature,  and  to 
that  of  others,  but  not  to  My  Heart. 

If  thou  art  an  interior  person,  animated  with  My 
Spirit,  thy  ways  of  acting  will  be  strong  in  deed, 
but  full  of  sweetness  in  manner.  Thou  wilt  con- 
stantly pursue  the  objects  aimed  at,  until  thou  at- 
tainest  to  them, — but  with  that  sweetness  of  char- 
ity, which,  whilst  it  stimulates,  never  wounds; 
which,  w'hen  it  urges  onward,  does  not  imbitter; 
which  employs  a thousand  painstakings  to  win; 
which  finally  overcomes,  but  so  overcomes  that  the 
conquered  one  surrenders  by  a voluntary  act,  and 
meritoriously. 

Thou  wilt  so  make  use  of  My  secret  of  govern- 
ing, as  not  to  require  the  same  of  all;  but,  by  the 
same  spirit,  to  gain  of  each  that  which,  regard 
being  had  to  talents,  strength,  and  other  circum- 
stances, could  reasonably  be  obtained. 

Thou  wilt  know  how  io  take  advantage  of  the 
character  of  thy  subjects;  and  to  employ  the  same 
for  its  proper  effect,  and  relatively  to  the  greatest 
usefulness. 

Thou  wilt  take  heed,  lest,  under  any  pretense, 
thou  estrange  subjects,  or  render  them  dispirited. 
And  thou  wilt  strive  to  treat  subjects  as  I treated 
My  Apostles;  so  that,  full  of  confidence,  they  have 
recourse  to  thee  in  every  difficulty,  and  do  find  thee 


CHAPTER  XXI.  297 

ever  animated  by  My  Spirit,  and  devoted  to  them; 
that  thus  they  may  live  ever  cheerful,  and  serve  Me 
with  a willing  mind  and  a large  heart. 

Remember,  My  Child,  that  there  is  nothing  more 
difficult  than  to  punish  beneficially.  Wherefore,  if, 
at  any  time,  it  be  necessary  to  punish,  see  thou  do 
not  make  the  evil  worse:  take  care  lest,  outwardly 
thou  incrust  and  whiten  the  individual,  as  if  he 
were  a sepulchre,  and  inclose  and  keep  rottenness 
within. 

Never,  by  word  or  deed,  rebuke  another;  if  either 
thyself  or  he  be  excited  with  anger.  It  will  be 
sufficient  to  restrain,  for  the  present,  him  that  ac- 
tually commits  a formal  sin:  delay  the  punishment 
until  thou  canst  prepare  and  administer  it  without 
passion,  and  he,  being  now  pacified,  may  accept  and 
undergo  the  same  with  profit. 

4.  Never  needlessly  sadden  any  one:  if,  at  any 
time,  thou  art  obliged  to  say  or  do  things  unpleas- 
ant to  others,  soften  them,  for  charity’s  sake,  with 
good  reasons,  and  season  them  with  such  a sweet- 
ness of  manner,  that  whatever  is  bitter  may  be  felt 
as  little  as  possible. 

If  thou  art  asked  anything  which  thou  canst  not 
grant;  show  to  him  that  asks,  how  much  thou  de- 
sirest  that  thou  wert  able,  and  how  it  grieves  thee 
that  thou  art  unable  to  comply  therewith:  and  so  he 
will  go  away  satisfied,  and  more  edified,  than  if  he 
had  obtained  his  request. 

Do  not,  under  cover  of  charity,  entertain  men 
with  empty  flatteries,  or  deceive  them  by  a certain 
politic  astuteness.  This  manner  of  acting  is  hate- 
ful to  heaven  and  earth:  for,  unless  it  is  grounded 
on  truth,  it  is  not  charity  but  deceit. 


298 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


5.  On  the  contrary,  My  Child,  do  thou  so  mani- 
fest in  thyself  the  character  of  the  humble  charity 
of  My  Heart,  as  to  be,  in  every  place,  the  good 
odor  of  My  example. 

So  let  thy  light  shine  before  men,  that  they  may 
see  thy  good  deeds,  and  glorify  thy  Father,  who  is 
in  heaven. 

The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — Yet,  Lord,  didst 
Thou  not  recommend  to  Thy  Disciples,  that  they 
should  shut  the  door,  and  keep  their  own  affairs 
secret  ? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Dost  thou  not  understand 
these  things,  My  Child  ? Know,  then,  and  give 
heed.  Things  which  are  not  required,  nor  serve 
for  common  edification,  should  be  done  in  private, 
since  they  might  become  a stumbling-block  to  thy 
neighbor,  and  dangerous  to  thyself : but  those 
which  are  common  or  necessary,  are  to  be  so  per- 
formed in  public,  that  the  intention  remains  con- 
cealed; that  thus,  by  thy  works,  thou  mayst  give 
good  example  to  thy  neighbor;  and,  for  thy  inten- 
tion, whereby  thou  seekest  to  please  Me  alone,  thou 
ever  desirest  secrecy. 

6.  If,  through  divine  love,  thou  exercisest  hu- 
mility and  charity  toward  all,  whosoever  they  may 
be,  thou  wilt  assuredly  be  the  good  odor  of  My 
Heart  for  all  who  shall  see  thy  example. 

And,  although  others  should  not  profit  by  thy 
example,  thou  shalt  be  no  less  dear  to  My  Heart. 

Blessed  is  he,  My  Child,  who  by  the  example  of 
a humble  charity,  shall  so  shine  before  men,  as  to 
show  that  the  goodness  of  My  Heart  is  to  be  loved 
and  imitated!  They  that  so  explain  Me,  shall  have 
life  everlasting. 


CHAPTER  XXII.  299 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  meek 
and  lowly  Jesus!  to  perform  the  things  which  Thou 
teachest  as  drawn  from  Thy  Heart,  so  full  of  sweet- 
ness, I need  a powerful  grace.  I beseech  Thee, 
help  me  with  Thy  most  efficacious  aid. 

I ought,  and  I desire,  to  possess  a greater  hu- 
mility,  and  a greater  charity  as  well.  For,  often- 
times, I own  it  to  my  shame,  through  lack  of  hu- 
mility and  charity,  I offend  my  neighbor  and  dis- 
please Thee. 

Most  humble  and  sweet  Jesus,  O Thou  Magnet 
of  hearts,  who,  by  the  divine  goodness  of  Thy  Heart, 
drawest  all  men,  and  entertainest  them  with  the 
inexhaustible  sweetness  of  Thy  humble  charity; 
grant,  that  I may  follow  Thee;  grant  me,  to  be  a 
perfect  Disciple  of  Thy  Heart. 

Free  me  from  the  harshness  and  bitterness  of 
pride  and  self-love;  render  my  heart,  like  Thine, 
uniformly  kind,  and  ever  replenished  with  humble 
charity  toward  all,  without  limitation  of  persons. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  LIVING 
IN  THE  WORLD,  TEACHES  US  SO  TO  DWELL  IN 
THE  WORLD,  THAT  WE  BE  NEITHER  OF  THE  WORLD, 
NOR  HARMED  BY  IT. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  so  long  as  I 
was  in  the  world,  I was  not  of  the  world:  I abode 
among  the  good  and  the  wicked:  neither  had  the 
prince  of  the  world,  nor  its  spirit,  anything  in  Me. 


3°° 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Although  I was  incapable  of  sin,  yet  I made  use 
of  such  things  as  might  teach  My  Disciples  how 
they  should  keep  themselves  from  the  defilements 
of  the  world. 

Inwardly  My  Heart  was  so  estranged  from  the 
world,  that  It  was  affected  by  nothing  which  is  of 
this  world;  It  so  burned  with  divine  love,  that, 
like  a flame,  It  ever  rose  above  all  things  created. 

It  was  inwardly  self-collected,  whilst  It  was  busied 
outwardly:  within,  It  remained  united  to  God, 
whilst  without,  It  was  occupied  with  men. 

But,  outwardly,  everything  was  in  Me  well-or- 
dered: the  senses  were  passionless:  My  behavior 
full  of  discernment. 

So  prudent  and  holy  was  My  conversation,  that 
My  very  enemies  went  away,  saying:  Never  has 
man  spoken  like  this  one. 

Nothing  was  ever  imprudently  uttered,  nothing 
was  unguarded;  no  dangerous  familiarity,  no  levity; 
but  a certain  placid  seriousness,  tempered  with  a 
wonderful  sweetness,  distinguished  My  outward 
carriage. 

In  Me,  everything  was  full  of  dignity,  which  in- 
spired both  respect  and  love,  checked  all  forward- 
ness, inculcated  reserve,  recommended  virtue. 

Withdrawing  frequently  from  men,  I betook  My- 
self to  prayer;  although  inwardly  I never  ceased 
to  pray. 

2.  My  Child,  would  that  the  a didst  understand 
these  things!  Would  that  thou  didst  imitate  them, 
that  thou  mightst  abide,  without  sin  or  harm,  in 
this  wicked  world! 

To  encourage  thyself,  look  at  the  example  of  the 
Saints,  who,  pressing  My  footsteps,  lived  indeeo 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


3°! 


with  their  bod$  in  the  world,  but  with  their  heart 
uplifted  far  above  the  world. 

The  world  harmed  them  not,  because  they  loved 
naught  of  the  world:  on  the  contrary,  it  was  useful 
to  them;  because,  the  more  they  perceived  the 
banefulness  of  the  world,  the  more  highly  they 
valued  the  divine  friendship,  and  the  more  they 
cherished  the  same. 

Whatever  they  beheld  in  the  world,  they  despised 
and  rejected  as  offscourings,  that  they  might  enjoy 
the  blessings  of  My  grace  and  love. 

3.  My  Child,  if  thou  wilt  dwell  in  the  world 
without  hurt,  first  of  all,  let  thy  heart  be  well-regu- 
lated within.  Let  it  be  convinced  of  the  utter 
vanity  of  the  world,  and  abhor  it:  let  it  be  con- 
scious of  the  inestimable  price  of  My  friendship, 
and  adhere  thereto. 

Accustom  thyself  forthwith  to  turn  inwardly 
with  thy  heart  to  Me, — so  often  as  anything  is  of- 
fered to  thee  by  the  world, — and  to  utter  these, 
or  similar,  aspirations:  Besides  Thee,  what  do  I 
desire  upon  earth,  God  of  my  heart,  and  my  por- 
tion forever! 

If  thy  heart  be  rightly  regulated  in  this  manner, 
thou  shalt  be  little  moved,  by  whatever  thou  mayst 
see  in  the  world.  Nay  more,  the  world,  even  in 
spite  of  itself,  will  work  with  thee  unto  good;  be- 
cause it  will  often  drive  thee  to  Me, — the  centre  of 
thy  felicity;  and  will  make  thee  understand  more 
and  more  fully  the  unutterable  wretchedness  of  the 
world,  and  the  blessedness  of  My  service. 

Keep  thy  heart  so  disposed,  that  it  be  neither 
troubled  at  the  greatness  of  the  crimes  of  others, 
nor  scandalized  by  the  perverseness  of  the  wicked; 


3C2 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


nor  let  it  hesitate  to  continue  with  Me,  in  spite  of 
any  attempts  of  hell  or  of  the  world. 

Know  thou,  My  Child,  that  the  wicked,  among 
whom  thou  mayst  live,  can  in  no  way  harm  thee, 
if  thy  heart  effectually  dissent  from  them.  It  is 
not  in  the  power  of  the  perverse  to  injure  thee, 
provided  thou  art  unwilling.  For  no  one  is  harmed 
except  by  himself. 

4.  Notwithstanding,  since  the  flesh  is  weak,  and 
the  heart  prone  to  evil,  it  may  happen  that  the  senses, 
unless  carefully  guarded,  do,  to  thy  great  peril, 
bring  the  foe  even  to  thy  very  heart. 

It  is,  therefore,  necessary,  in  thy  intercourse  with 
the  world,  to  guard  all  the  avenues  of  the  senses; 
if  thou  do  not  wish  to  be  exposed  to  the  danger  of 
discovering  that,  by  degrees,  thou  becomest  affected, 
defiled,  corrupted. 

The  things  of  the  world,  which  fall  under  the 
senses,  thou  oughtest  to  see,  as  if  thou  didst  not 
see  them;  to  hear,  as  if  thou  didst  not  hear  them; 
in  short,  to  perceive  them,  by  means  of  the  senses, 
as  if  thou  didst  not  perceive  them. 

But  thy  chief  watchfulness  ought  ever  to  be  ex* 
erted  over  thy  heart.  For,  even  should  the  enemy 
secretly  penetrate  within  the  gates,  if  thyself  thou 
dost  not  open  thy  heart,  he  shall  be  unable  to  enter, 
or  to  destroy  thee. 

Wherefore,  preserve  with  the  greatest  care  the 
unshaken  resolve  of  cleaving  to  Me  with  thy  whole 
heart;  of  wisely  protecting  all  the  approaches  to 
thy  heart.  After  this,  attend  with  confidence  to  thy 
affairs,  prepared  with  a resolute  mind,  in  every  danger, 
to  have  recourse  to  Me,  and  to  act  with  fidelity. 

5.  My  Child,  thou  wilt  avoid  many  dangers,  if,  at 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


3°3 


all  times,  thou  showest  a certain  dignity, — not  indeed 
in  artificial  one,  but  one  that  springs  from  virtue, 
mch  as  is  befitting  in  every  Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

Wherever,  therefore,  thou  mayst  be,  so  deport 
ihyself  that  there  appear  in  thee  nothing  mean, 
nothing  light,  nothing  either  forced  or  feigned: 
Dn  the  contrary,  let  there  shine  forth  in  thee  an 
3asy,  sweet  decorum,  which  is  well  suited  to  re- 
strain others,  and  to  fill  them  with  respect. 

Do  not,  in  act  nor  in  affection,  enslave  thyself  to 
my  creature ; always  and  everywhere  keep  thyself  free. 

Neither  do  thou  intrust  thyself,  and  what  belongs 
co  thee,  to  all  and  every  one:  but  try  the  spirit, 
and  mistrust  the  same  unless  proved.  Remember, 
that  many  have  been  deceived  by  appearances,  and 
destroyed  by  an  imprudent  familiarity. 

6.  It  will  prove  very  useful,  My  Child,  to  foresee 
the  things  to  be  transacted  with  the  world:  to  con- 
sider carefully,  what  is  to  be  done,  and  in  what 
manner;  with  what  persons  thou  hast  to  deal,  and 
under  what  circumstances;  in  short,  what  means 
are  to  be  taken  to  succeed  in  the  business,  as  well 
as  to  avoid  sin. 

Thou  shouldst,  however,  rely  more  upon  divine 
grace  than  upon  thy  own  industry;  thou  must, 
therefore,  frequently  turn  thyself  to  Me,  ask  My 
counsel,  and  entreat  Me. 

Yea,  My  Child,  in  whatsoever  matters  thou  mayst 
be  engaged;  among  what  men  soever  thou  mayst 
be;  thou  oughtest  so  to  behave,  so  to  hold  thy  heart 
free  from  creatures,  that  thou  mayst  be  able,  at 
the  very  appearance  of  sin,  with  a pmus  and  easy 
motion,  to  fly  to  Me,  and  hide  thyself,  far  away 
from  every  danger,  in  My  Heart. 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


3°  4 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet  and 
amiable  Jesus!  Thou  knowest  that  I am  in  the 
world,  only  because  Thou  didst  will  that  I should 
be  in  the  world.  I do  humbly  beseech  Thee,  pre- 
serve me,  exposed  as  I am  to  the  filthy  world,  that 
I be  not  sunk  in  its  mire,  nor  soiled  by  its  unclean- 
ness. 

O My  God!  the  more  attentively  I look  at  the 
world,  the  viler  it  grows  to  me:  on  the  other  hand, 
the  more  eagerly  I meditate  upon  Thee,  the  more 
exceedingly  sweet  Thou  becomest  to  me:  the  more 
good  things  I find  in  Thee, — the  more  and  the 
greater  appear  those  that  I see  remain  to  be  found. 

O Jesus,  my  supreme  Good!  keep  me  near  Thy- 
self, and  grant  that  neither  the  devil,  nor  his  allure- 
ments, may  carry  me  off;  that  the  world,  or  its 
deceitful  vanity,  may  not  beguile  me;  that  corrupt 
nature  may  not  overcome  me;  that  my  unguarded 
senses  may  not  betray  me. 

Strengthen  me  with  Thy  efficacious  grace,  that  I 
may  lead  a blameless  life  in  this  world;  until  Thou 
takest  me  from  the  danger  of  the  world  into  the 
secure  abode  of  heaven. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  REQUIR- 
ING FAITH  IN  HIS  DISCIPLES,  TEACHES  US  TO  LIVE 
THE  LIFE  OF  FAITH. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — When  the  Son  of  man 
comes,  thinkest  thou,  that  He  shall  find  faith,  not 
of  any  kind,  but  a faith  lively,  active,  fervent? 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


305 


And  yet,  such  a faith  I ever  required,  and  do 
require  of  My  Disciples;  because  I am  ever  the 
same  God,  ever  equally  deserving,  that  they  live 
for  Me  by  faith. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yea  Lord,  Thou  art 
God,  ever  the  same,  ever  supremely  worthy,  that 
for  Thee  all  things  live,  that  to  Thee  all  be  per- 
fectly submissive,  wholly  devoted. 

The  voice  0}  Jesus. — Rightly  dost  thou  believe 
this,  My  Child,  because  the  universe  bears  witness 
that  I am  God.  From  the  beginning,  the  Patri- 
archs and  Prophets  foretold  Me  such:  as  such  was 
I pointed  out  beforehand  by  nature,  and  by  the 
Law,  the  end  whereof  I am. 

As  such  did  all  the  elements  acknowledge  Me: 
the  heavens  confessed  Me,  since,  at  My  birth,  they 
displayed  the  star:  the  sea  declared  Me,  since  it 
suffered  itself  to  be  trodden  by  My  feet:  the  earth 
proclaimed  Me,  since,  at  My  passion,  it  quaked: 
the  sun  recognized  Me,  since  he  hid  the  rays  of  his 
light,  and  grieved  for  the  expiring  author  of  his 
being. 

The  very  spirits  of  hell  acknowledged  Me  as 
such,  since  they  showed  that,  without  My  consent, 
they  could  assail  not  even  the  vilest  animals,  and 
since  they  gave  up  the  dead  whom  they  were  de- 
taining. 

The  Angels  gave  testimony  of  Me,  since,  at  My 
Incarnation,  they  announced  Me  the  Son  of  God; 
since,  at  My  llativity,  they  proclaimed  Me  to  the 
world  as  the  Saviour;  since  they  ministered  to  Me 
during  My  life;  since  they  showed  themselves  as 
witnesses  at  My  Resurrection. 

There  is  another  who  gave  testimony  of  Me  My 


3°6 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Father  Himself,  since  He  declared  Me  repeatedly 
His  own  beloved  Son. 

Moreover,  the  Holy  Spirit  also  gave  testimony  of 
Me,  neither  does  He  cease  so  to  do,  since,  by  the 
enlightening  and  motion  of  grace,  and  the  outpouring 
of  His  gifts,  He  draws  to  Me  the  hearts  of  men. 

Nay  more,  My  own  works  also,  which  I did,  give 
testimony  of  Me.  For  behold!  it  was  by  My  power 
that  the  blind  were  made  to  see,  the  lame  to  walk, 
the  deaf  to  hear;  that  the  lepers  were  cleansed,  the 
sick  healed,  the  dead  restored  to  life. 

2.  Now,  all  these  things,  My  Child, — and  what- 
soever else  is  to  be  believed  to  obtain  salvation, — 
by  whom  are  they,  infallibly,  without  danger  of 
error,  made  known  to  thee,  if  not  by  the  Church; 
by  whose  mouth  I speak  more  clearly  now,  than  I 
did  of  old,  by  the  mouth  of  the  holy  Prophets? 

Yea  truly,  this  is  My  mouth,  which,  when  I open, 
I teach  the  multitudes:  this  is  the  instrument  by 
which  I speak  exteriorly  to  men:  this  is  the  last 
rule  of  the  things  to  be  believed,  unerring  and  un- 
alterable: this,  finally,  is  the  only  Church,  wherein 
is  found  the  faith,  by  which  the  just  live. 

Without  faith  it  is  impossible  to  please  Me. 
Whence  it  is  clear,  that  every  just  man  who  is  Mine, 
lives  by  the  faith,  which  works  through  charity. 

3.  My  Child,  the  life  of  faith  possesses,  as  it 
were,  certain  degrees;  the  first  of  which  is,  when 
man, — aided  by  grace  from  above, — by  reason  of 
the  divine  authority,  believes  Me,  as  I speak  through 
the  Church,  and  lives  in  the  state  of  grace. 

My  Child,  a miracle  is  God’s  testimony:  a mir- 
acle is  an  evident  utterance  of  God,  and  the  infallible 
seal  of  divine  truth. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


3°7 


Now,  the  Church  herself  is  a miracle,  an  evident 
miracle,  whether  thou  considerest  her  origin  and  prop- 
agation, since, — established  by  miracles,  without  hu- 
man aid,  in  spite  of  hell,  in  spite  of  all  the  powers 
of  the  world,  in  spite  of  every  kind  of  wickedness 
of  men  conspiring  by  every  possible  means, — she 
went  forth  like  lightning  from  the  East,  and  ap- 
peared even  in  the  West:  or  whether  thou  considerest 
her  preservation  and  uninterrupted  growth,  since, — 
whilst  so  many  of  her  degenerate  children  in  every 
age,  attacked  her  anon  by  fraud,  violence,  rage;  and 
so  many  fierce  persecutors,  at  all  times,  never  grew 
weary  with  attacking  her  in  open  and  secret  ways,— 
she  herself,  amid  the  ruins  of  centuries,  whilst  all 
the  kingdoms  of  the  earth  crumbled  into  dust, 
stood  always  more  firm,  more  magnificent,  more 
glorious,  crowned  with  victory,  as  often  as  she  wras 
assailed. 

Wherefore  I, — God,  speaking  by  miracles, — 
speak  through  this  same  Church,  an  ever-enduring 
miracle. 

Blessed  he,  that  hears  this  Church,  One,  Holy, 
Catholic,  Apostolic:  he  that  hears  her,  hears  Me, 
certain  that  he  is  in  the  way  of  saving  truth:  he 
that  will  not  hear  her,  is  like  the  heathen  and  pub- 
lican; neither  does  he  hear  Me,  nor  can  he  be  other- 
wise than  on  the  road  of  death-bringing  error. 

My  Child,  if  thou  wilt  be  safe  and  secure,  cling 
thou,  with  heart  and  mind,  to  the  Church,  which  I 
built  upon  the  immovable  rock;  which  I cemented 
with  My  Blood;  wherein  I dwell;  which  I govern 
by  My  Spirit,  quicken  with  My  Heart. 

Hold  thy  mind  so  prepared,  that  to  whatsoever 
£he  may  teach  or  command,  thou  submit  thyself 


308 


THE  SECOND  BOOK, 


humbly  and  cheerfully:  and  keep  thy  heart  so 
disposed,  that  thou  love  her  affectionately,  as  thy 
best  Mother,  the  kind  parent  of  them  that  are  to  be 
saved. 

However,  faith,  to  be  a saving  one,  must  be 
enlivened  by  sanctifying  grace.  For,  without  this 
grace,  it  neither  unites  thee  to  Me,  nor  does  it  make 
thee  a living  member  of  the  Church,  My  mystical 
Body.  Wherefore,  it  has  been  most  truly  said, 
that  faith  without  works  is  dead;  although  when 
grace  is  lost,  by  a sin  not  against  faith,  faith  is  not 
lost  at  the  same  time;  and  the  faith  which  remains 
is  a true  faith,  even  if  it  is  not  a living  one. 

My  Child,  keep  thou  with  every  care,  this  gift 
of  thy  God,  divine  faith:  and  make  known  the  life 
of  this  faith,  by  works  done  in  the  state  of  grace. 

4.  There  is  a second  degree  of  the  life  of  faith, 
when  all  voluntary  acts,  interior  as  well  as  exterior, 
are  animated  by  the  principles  of  a living  faith. 

He  that  has  a lively  faith  guides  himself  by  the 
everlasting  principles  of  faith;  whereby  he  under- 
stands that  he  is  created  for  a supernatural  end, 
unending  beatitude  with  Me:  that  all  the  inferior 
creatures  on  earth  are  made,  to  help  man  in  the 
attainment  of  this  end. 

But  in  many  persons  faith  languishes,  because 
they  neglect  to  meditate  on  the  truths  of  faith, — 
being  too  busily  engaged  with  the  things  that  are 
of  the  world  and  the  flesh. 

For,  if  these  everlasting  truths  were  well  con- 
sidered, and  received  into  the  heart,  doubtless,  the 
things  of  God  and  of  salvation  would  be  loved; 
faith  would  be  vigorous,  and  bring  forth  flowers 
and  the  richest  fruits. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


3°9 


My  Child,  every  Disciple  of  My  Heart  possesses 
and  cherishes  this  lively  faith:  by  it  he  lives,  cheered 
on  by  hope,  and  glowing  with  charity;  and  he  goes 
and  ascends  from  virtue  to  virtue. 

5.  Many  of  them  whom  I call  to  an  uncommon 
holiness,  I am  wont  to  prepare  gradually  for  a pure 
faith.  This  pure  faith  is  the  third  degree  of  the 
life  of  faith.  In  this  degree  man  leads,  by  means 
of  perfect  faith,  a life  altogether  supernatural;  and, 
even  in  the  midst  of  darkness  and  temptations, — - 
following  under  obedience,  blindly  as  it  were,  the 
torch  of  faith — he  serves  Me  faithfully,  although 
he  may  not  see  or  know  whether  or  not  he  is  serv- 
ing Me. 

My  Child,  if,  by  My  Spirit,  thou  art  led  to  this 
life,  enter  upon  it  wdth  great  courage;  and  follow 
with  a fearless  heart,  under  obedience,  the  divine 
guidance. 

And,  when  thou  art  now  walking  in  these  interior 
ways,  where  thou  shalt  see  naught,  but  where  thou 
shalt  perceive  on  all  sides  enemies,  by  whom  thou 
shalt  sometimes  think  thyself  already  ensnared; 
where  thou  shalt  descry  underneath  thyself  the 
yawning  abyss,  into  which  thou  supposest  thyself 
ready  to  fall  at  every  step;  where,  lastly,  thou  shalt 
deem  that  heaven  above  is  incensed  against  thee, 
and  that  thou  feelest  this;  going  ever  onward, 
without  knowing  by  what  way  or  whither,  but 
supposing  that  thou  art  ever  coming  nearer  to  thy 
destruction:  then,  My  Child,  enliven  thy  faith, 
and  follow,  with  a pure  faith,  even  blindly,  the 
guidance  of  them  that  hold  My  place  in  thy  regard. 

Let  not  thy  heart  be  troubled,  My  Child:  but 
cheer  up  thy  courage,  and  call  to  mind  that  thou 


3IQ 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


^ rt  walking  in  the  way  wherein  the  greatest  Saints 
have  walked  before  thee;  who,  had  they  not  passed 
through  the  same,  had  never  sanctified  themselves. 

When,  finally,  all  secret  pride,  and  self-love  have 
been  sufficiently  rooted  out;  when  the  intended  pu- 
rifying shall  have  been  completed,  according  to  My 
designs;  then  the  eyes  of  thy  soul  shall  be  opened; 
and,  filled  with  astonishment,  thou  shalt  find  thy- 
self in  a new  way,  which  will  be  like  a pledge  of 
life  everlasting. 

After  this,  My  Child,  thou  shalt  live,  as  it  were, 
in  an  uninterrupted  serenity:  thou  shalt  behold 
things  not  seen  before:  thou  shalt  rejoice  as  thou 
didst  never  rejoice  before:  thou  shalt  understand, 
and  taste  the  secrets  of  My  Heart  with  a new  relish: 
and  thou  shalt  rather  fly  than  walk  to  perfection. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Being  of  beings,  O 
God,  who  canst  not  deceive  nor  be  deceived!  I 
believe  whatsoever  Thou  proposest  to  be  believed 
through  Thy  Holy  Catholic  Church,  whom  Thou 
didst  appoint  the  guardian,  witness  and  interpreter 
of  Thy  saving  doctrine;  whom  Thou  didst  establish 
the  unshaken  ground-work  of  the  truth;  whom 
Thou  dost  so  shelter  beneath  Thy  protection,  that 
the  gates  of  hell  can  never  prevail  against  her. 

O Church,  One,  Holy,  Catholic,  Apostolic!  Vir- 
gin Spouse  of  Jesus,  the  Son  of  God, — who  abides 
with  Thee  all  days,  even  to  the  consummation  of 
time,— thou  that  bearest  His  name  upon  thy  brow, 
and  His  divine  seal  upon  thy  arms;  thou  evident 
and  unending  miracle!  whosoever  does  not  ac- 
knowledge thee,  is  devoid  of  reason;  whoso  does 
not  love  thee,  is  truly  heartless;  whoso  does  not 
hear  thee,  deserves  to  be  considered  a heathen. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


311 

O Church,  One,  Holy,  Catholic,  Apostolic! 
Mother  most  loving,  Mother  most  lovely,  whoso- 
ever has  not  thee  for  Mother,  has  not  God  for  Father! 
Dear,  indeed,  is  my  native  land:  dear  my  family: 
dear  my  life:  but  incomparably  dearer  art  thou, 
my  Mother,  thou  Church  divine!  O dearest  Mother, 
let  my  right  hand  be  forgotten,  if  ever  I forget  thee! 
let  my  heart  faint  away,  if  I do  not  love  thee,  if 
I make  thee  not  the  beginning  of  my  joy  and  glory! 

O thou  Church,  One,  Holy,  Catholic,  Apostolic; 
saving  queen  the  world,  whose  everlasting  sway 
is  spread  over  the  earth;  whose  subjects, — the  rich 
and  the  poor,  the  European  and  the  American,  the 
Asiatic  and  the  African, — are  children  of  one 
Mother,  brethren  of  one  family,  princes  all, — all 
destined  to  reign  for  evermore.  O thou,  upon 
whom  shine  the  Apostles,  glittering  luminaries  of 
the  world;  whose  triumphs  thousands  of  Martyrs 
proclaim ; whose  wonderful  works  the  armies  of 
Confessors  display;  whose  beauty  ever  new  the 
Angelic  multitudes  of  Virgins  manifest;  whose 
name  and  splendor  all  the  heroes  of  virtue  adorn; 
behold!  I,  together  with  the  thousands  of  thy 
children,  from  the  four  quarters  of  the  globe, — of 
all  tribes,  and  peoples,  and  tongues, — arise  and  bless 
thee,  uttering  with  one  heart  and  one  voice:  Set 
out  with  thy  comeliness : proceed  thou  prosper- 
ously and  reign!  Let  thy  blissful  reign  be  spread 
even  to  the  boundaries  of  the  earth,  that,  under  it, 
we  mortals,  each  and  all,  may,  with  joyous  hearts, 
together  serve  God  our  Saviour,  until  we  draw  near 
to  the  heavenly  City,  and  the  multitude  of  the  many 
thousands  of  Angels, — the  Church  of  the  first-born,^ 
that  are  in  heaven! 


3 12 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  PROMIS- 
ING SALVATION  TO  THEM  THAT  PERSEVERE,  AND 

THE  MEANS  OF  SALVATION  TO  THEM  THAT  PRAY 

WITH  CONFIDENCE,  TEACHES  US  TO  LEAD  THE 

LIFE  OF  HOPE. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — Come  ye  all  to  Me:  have 
confidence:  him  that  comes  to  Me,  I will  not  cast 
out. 

Hope,  therefore,  in  Me,  My  Child,  and  do  not 
fear;  because  I,  thy  Creator,  have  redeemed  thee, 
and  called  thee:  thou  art  Mine;  and  I am  God, 
thy  Saviour. 

My  Child,  hope  is  the  anchor  of  life:  as  the  an- 
chor secures  the  ship  at  sea,  so  hope  makes  the  soul 
fast  in  Me. 

All  things  present  are  done  in  the  hope  of  things 
to  come.  The  hearts  of  mortals,  were  hope  taken 
away,  would  rest  inactive;  they  would  suffer  all 
things  to  languish,  all  things  to  perish. 

Hope  is  the  stimulant  of  men,  it  arouses  their 
hearts,  and  goads  them  on  to  generous  efforts. 

Worldly  hope,  wavering  and  worthless,  deceives 
and  passes  away:  divine  hope,  on  the  contrary, 
fixed  and  immovable,  resting  upon  My  infallible 
word,  sustains  him  that  hopes,  and  rewards  him  that 
perse^s  eres. 

The  former  is  wont  to  beget  rashness  or  dejec- 
tion; the  \atter,  a humble  and  steady  greatness  of 
soul. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


5*3 

This  holy  hope  thou  needest,  My  Child,  to  strive 
courageously  for  the  crown,  and  to  bear  it  off,  in 
spite  of  opposing  difficulties. 

Live  by  hope:  cherish  reliance  on  Me,  with  all 
thy  heart.  For  in  Me  is  all  hope  of  life,  virtue, 
holiness. 

2.  The  first  degree  of  the  life  of  hope,  is  when 
man,  with  a sure  reliance,  awaits  everlasting  beati- 
tude, and  the  means  to  attain  to  the  same  through 
the  divine  assistance. 

My  Child,  since  My  mercy  is  infinite,  no  one,  in 
this  life,  should  despair.  A horrible  sin  is  despair: 
a crime  exceedingly  insulting  to  My  Heart;  be- 
sides, what  can  be  more  hurtful  to  man  himself? 
Despair  causes  him  that  stands  to  fall, — does  not 
suffer  him  that  is  fallen  to  rise. 

Nor,  on  the  other  hand,  is  it  lawful  to  indulge  in 
presumption.  Far,  therefore,  be  it  from  any  one 
to  rely  upon  himself,  and  not  upon  Me,  who  hum- 
ble them  that  presume  upon  themselves,  and  protect 
them  that  rely  upon  Me. 

Take  courage,  My  Child;  act  manfully:  do  not 
lose  confidence,  which  has  a great  reward.  For  to 
them  that  hope  in  Me,  and  labor  valiantly  unto  the 
end,  life  everlasting  is  mercifully  promised  by  Me, 
as  to  My  children;  and  it  will  be  faithfully  given 
to  them,  according  to  My  promise, — as  a reward 
for  their  own  good  works  and  merits. 

3.  The  second  degree  of  the  life  of  hope  is,  when, 
amid  casual  events  and  things  adverse,  a person  so 
trusts  in  My  most  wise  and  loving  Providence,  that, 
after  having  done,  with  a good  and  upright  will, 
whatsoever  he  was  able,  he  confides  himself  alto- 
gether to  Me. 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


3X4 

My  Child,  when  matters  do  not  proceed  accord- 
ing to  thy  wishes,  do  not  meanly  give  way  to  despond- 
ency; but  cheer  up  thy  spirits,  and  have  recourse 
to  My  Heart.  This  thou  shalt  ever  find  the  Heart 
of  the  best  of  fathers;  in  It  thou  shalt  ever  meet 
with  sympathy,  help,  and  inexhaustible  goodness. 

Neither  allow  thy  miseries  to  lessen  thy  confi- 
dence in  Me.  The  more  miserable  thou  shalt  feel, 
the  greater  reason  thou  oughtest  to  have  of  mis- 
trusting thyself,  and  of  trusting  in  Me. 

For,  distrust  in  thyself,  in  order  to  be  good,  should 
beget  a firm  trust  in  Me.  Wherefore,  all  distrust, 
which  produces  depression  of  spirits  or  faint-hearted- 
ness, should  be  cast  off  as  a dangerous  temptation. 

Throw  thyself  into  the  bosom  of  My  Providence, 
as  a child  into  the  bosom  of  its  parent.  He  shall 
not  perish  who  is  in  the  arms  of  such  a father  as  I 
am. 

It  should  certainly  be  a miracle, — such  a one  as 
never  yet  has  been  wrought,  nor  shall  ever  be  seen, — 
if  My  Heart  were  wanting  to  them  that  rely  upon 
Its  aid,  or  if  It  did  not  hasten  to  their  assistance. 

4.  Lastly,  the  third  degree  of  hope  is,  when  the 
soul,  even  amidst  great  obstacles  and  arduous  diffi- 
culties of  every  kind,  trusts  in  Me  with  a perfect 
hope;  although  she  does  not  perceive,  except  upon 
principles  of  faith,  any  means  of  extricating  her- 
self. 

If  thou  seest  not  how  thou  mayst  escape  from 
the  troubles  that  rush  upon  thee,  raise  thyself,  My 
Child,  above  all  things  human,  and,  with  a pure 
hope,  intrust  thyself  wholly  to  Me;  rely  altogether 
upon  Me,  with  whom  rests  both  the  power  to  help 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


3I5 

The  more  desperate  matters  appear,  the  more 
firmly  thou  oughtest  to  hope  in  Me.  For  it  is  a char- 
acteristic of  My  Heart,  to  grant  more  plentiful 
divine  aid  to  them  that  are  most  forsaken,  and  have 
recourse  to  Me  with  confidence. 

Remember,  My  Child,  that  I am  wont  to  defend 
more  stoudy  those  things  which  are  more  violently 
assailed  by  the  demon ; and  to  strengthen  most 
powerfully  that  which  the  foe  tries  most  to  tear 
down. 

Courage,  then,  My  Child,  what  fearest  thou  ? 
Thou  hast  God  with  thee.  Be  valiant,  act  with 
confidence,  advance  boldly. 

If,  whithersoever  thou  turnest  thyself,  thou  thinkest 
ever  to  perceive  a lower  deep,  keep  thyself  within 
My  arms ; repose  upon  My  Heart,  resigned  to  every- 
thing. Then  only,  when  thou  shalt  be  sufficiently 
free  from  all  self-reliance  and  expectation, — when, 
in  a human  sense,  thou  shalt  deem  thyself  lost, — 
thou  shalt  find,  in  a marvelous  manner,  both  thy- 
self and  Me:  thyself  saved,  and  Myself  present 
in  person. 

Thenceforth,  My  Child,  behold!  new  things  loom 
up  before  thee:  thy  hope  will  be  heroic,  at  the  same 
time,  and  delightful:  thy  confidence  in  Me  full  of 
consolation,  with  peace  ever-enduring. 

5.  My  Child,  I know  what  is  advantageous  to 
thee:  I can  do  what  thou  canst  not:  suffer  Me  to 
act:  and,  praying  and  hoping,  do  thou  co-operate 
with  Me. 

Many  there  are  who,  if  they  obtain  not  forthwith 
whatsoever  they  hope  or  ask  for,  are  cast  down  and 
become  fainthearted. 

My  Child,  whosoever  asks  with  confidence  that 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


316 

which  is  not  contrary  to  his  salvation  or  to  My 
honor,  always  receives.  For,  either  he  receives 
what  he  asks  for;  or,  in  its  stead,  that  which  I know 
to  be  better  for  him:  and  so  he  receives  when- 
ever it  is  good  to  receive.  Sometimes,  the  ob- 
jects asked  are  not  refused,  but  they  are  delayed, 
that  they  may  be  given  at  the  suitable  time. 

And,  because  thou  thinkest  ofttimes  in  a hu- 
man manner,  imagining  that  that  would  be  good 
for  thee  which,  however,  if  thou  hadst  it,  would  not 
be  good;  and,  since  thou  knowest  not,  in  particular, 
what,  or  how,  things  are  better  for  thee:  therefore, 
thou  shouldst  commit  thyself  to  Me,  and  persevere 
quietly  in  asking  and  hoping. 

There  are  they  who,  at  first,  surrender  themselves 
wholly  to  Me,  and  afterward,  in  certain  difficulties, 
desire  to  provide  for  themselves.  These,  with  My 
permission,  are  wont  to  become  more  entangled  in 
those  difficulties;  that  they  may  learn,  in  all  things, 
to  mistrust  themselves,  and  to  rely  upon  Me. 

6.  Who  has  ever  vainly  trusted  in  Me?  Who 
was  ever  disappointed  in  the  hope  which  he  placed 
in  My  Heart? 

Behold!  by  hope  My  Mother  obtained  My  first 
public  miracle,  whereby  I changed  water  into  wine. 
For,  although  she  saw  there  was  scarcely  room  for 
expecting  the  wished-for  favor;  yet,  knowing  My 
Heart,  she  had  confidence,  and  obtained  what  she 
desired. 

By  hope  was  the  woman,  who  was  troubled  with 
an  issue  of  blood,  freed  from  her  long  ailment. 
For  she  approached  Me  with  so  great  a confidence 
that  she  said:  “If  I shall  touch  only  His  garment, 
T shall  be  healed.”  And  so  she  was  made  whole. 


CHAPTER  XXIV.  3I7 

By  hope  did  the  woman  of  Canaan  obtain  conso- 
lation, and  relief  in  her  affliction.  Although  her 
confidence  and  faith  were  tried,  she,  increasing  in 
faith,  trusted,  and  prayed  the  more  earnestly,  that, 
pitying,  I might  help  her.  She  trusted  not  in  vain, 
she  prayed  not  in  vain.  For  she  obtained  what  she 
asked. 

By  hope  did  Bartimeus,  the  blind  man,  receive 
his  sight.  For  he  prayed  with  confidence,  crying 
out  to  Me,  as  I was  passing  by:  and,  when  rebuked 
by  many,  that  he  should  hold  his  peace,  he  cried 
out  the  more:  “Jesus,  Son  of  David,  have  pity  on 
me.”  Wherefore,  pitying  him,  I opened  his  eyes, 
that  he  might  see. 

By  hope  was  the  leper  cleansed.  “Lord,”  said 
he,  full  of  faith,  “if  Thou  wilt,  Thou  canst  make 
me  clean.”  My  Heart,  thus  appealed  to,  was  moved 
with  compassion,  and:  “I  will,”  said  I,  “be  thou 
made  clean.”  And  forthwith  he  was  cleansed. 

By  hope  did  Lazarus — poor  and  destitute,  full  of 
ulcers,  cast  off  by  the  rich  man — persevere  with 
holiness  in  suffering.  For  he  looked  up  to  his  re- 
ward: nor  in  vain.  When  he  died,  he  was  borne 
by  Angels  into  the  bosom  of  Abraham. 

What  more?  None  ever  hoped  in  Me,  and  was 
disappointed.  Wherefore,  My  Child,  lay  aside 
all  fear:  lay  aside  distrust;  in  life  and  death  give 
thyself  up  to  My  Heart. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  how 
good  Thou  art!  how  sweet!  Yea,  O Jesus,  Thou 
art  goodness  itself.  Thou  art  very  sweetness. 

O Jesus,  my  Saviour!  I will  deal  confidently 
and  not  fear,  being  mindful  of  Thy  Heart;  because 
It  is  infinitely  good,  Its  mercy  endures  forever. 


3i8 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


Remember,  O Jesus  meek  and  humble  of  Heart, 
that,  in  what  need  soever,  no  one,  who  had  recourse 
to  Thy  most  loving  Heart,  was  ever  rejected  or 
sent  away  empty.  Animated  with  such  a confi- 
dence, O Jesus,  I come  to  Thee:  burdened  with 
miseries,  I fly  to  Thee,  and,  with  my  miseries,  I 
throw  myself  on  Thy  Heart.  Do  not,  O my  God, 
my  Father,  cast  off  me,  Thy  all-unworthy  child, 
but  give  me  admittance,  I beseech  Thee,  into  Thy 
Heart;  nor  suffer  me  ever  to  be  separated  there- 
from. Aid  me,  I entreat  Thee,  in  all  my  wants, 
now  and  forever,  but,  above  all,  at  the  hour  of  my 
death,  O most  benign!  O most  compassionate!  O 
most  sweet  Jesus! 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

THAT  THE  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  ENJOINING 
LOVE  ON  ALL,  TEACHES  US  TO  LEAD  A LIFE  OF 
DIVINE  LOVE. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — My  Child,  thou  shalt  love 
the  Lord  thy  God  with  thy  whole  heart,  and  with 
thy  whole  strength.  This  is  the  greatest  com- 
mandment. 

I am  thy  God  and  thy  Lord.  By  Me  thou  wast 
created:  by  Me  redeemed. 

This,  then,  is  My  command,  that  thou  love  Me. 
Is  it  not  an  easy  command?  is  it  not  sweet?  is  it 
not  beneficial?  is  it  not  replenished  with  every 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


3*9 

What  is  more  easy  than  to  love?  Love  is  the 
life  of  the  heart ; without  love  the  heart  cannot 
live.  Thus  was  thy  heart  constituted  from  the  be- 
ginning; I Myself  so  created,  so  formed  it.  For  I 
made  thy  heart  that  it  may  love:  but  love  Me. 

Thou  knowest,  My  Child,  who  I am,  and  what 
manner  of  Heart  is  Mine.  Canst  thou  find  on 
earth,  or  even  in  heaven,  a sweeter  object  of  love 
than  My  Heart  ? Is  not  My  Heart  very  sweetness  ? 

Ask  of  them  diat  have  experienced  it:  ask  the 
Saints  who,  inebriated  with  the  sweetness  of  My 
love,  forgot  all  worldly  things,  yea,  found  that 
which  was  naturally  bitter,  sweet  and  full  of  con- 
solation. 

Ask  the  Angels,  who  possess  My  love,  and  re- 
joice and  exult  therein  forever. 

Canst  thou  find  in  any  other  object  so  much  bliss- 
fulness for  time  and  for  eternity?  What  true  good 
is  there,  which  thou  canst  not  have  in  My  Heart? 
Enlarge  thy  heart,  as  much  as  thou  mayst  wish; 
behold!  all  thy  desires  shall  be  filled. 

If  peace  is  desired,  if  consolation,  if  virtue,  if 
perfection,  if  security  in  life  and  in  death,  if  any 
other  good:  it  is  found  in  My  Heart,  it  is  obtained 
by  loving  Me. 

Arouse  thy  heart,  My  Child;  love  with  thy  whole 
heart,  cherish  with  thy  whole  strength:  but  love, 
but  cherish  Me,  thy  every  good. 

Let  fear,  which  contains  pain,  disappear:  let 
faintheartedness,  which  fetters  the  heart,  vanish 
away:  love  thou,  My  Child,  and  be  free:  love  thor 
and  be  happy. 

Live,  henceforth,  the  life  of  love,  as  it  behooves 
a Disciple  of  My  Heart. 


320 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


2.  The  first  degree  of  the  life  of  divine  love  is, 
so  to  love  Me,  with  a love  of  preference,  that  thou 
keepest  all  My  commands  which  oblige  under 
grievous  sin;  and  that  thou  wouldst,  for  naught  on 
earth,  deliberately  transgress  any  one  of  them. 

He  that  does  not  so  love  Me  remains  in  death. 
Life  and  death,  divine  love  and  mortal  sin,  do  not 
dwell  together  in  the  same  heart. 

Deeds  are  the  proof  of  love.  Therefore,  who- 
soever keeps  My  commands,  the  same  loves  Me  in 
truth. 

By  this,  then,  thou  shalt  know  whether  thou  lovest 
Me,  if  thou  keepest  My  commands. 

Now,  this  degree  of  love  is  necessary  to  all,  for 
salvation;  insomuch  that,  should  any  one  know  all 
mysteries  and  every  science ; should  he  distribute 
all  his  possessions  to  feed  the  poor;  should  he  give 
up  his  body  to  be  burned;  should  he  speak  with 
the  tongues  of  Angels,  or  should  he  possess  any 
other  powers  whatsoever:  and  have  not  this  degree 
of  divine  love,  it  avails  him  nothing  for  life  ever- 
lasting. 

Here  eternal  salvation  is  at  stake.  He  that  loves 
father  or  mother ; wife  or  children ; brothers  or 
sisters;  possessions,  or  life  itself,  more  than  Me,  is 
not  worthy  of  Me,  nor  fit  for  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

If  thou  wilt  enter  into  life  everlasting,  keep  the 
commandments;  avoid  mortal  sin:  whatsoever 
efforts,  whatsoever  sacrifices  it  may  cost  thee. 

3.  The  second  degree  of  the  life  of  divine  love  is, 
so  to  love  Me,  with  a love  full  of  affection  and  gen- 
erosity, that  thou  ever  seekest  effectually  to  please 
Me;  and  wouldst  not,  for  any  consideration  what- 
soever, offend  Me — even  bv  a venial  sin. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


321 


Assuredly,  My  Child,  if  thou  possessest  a heart 
worthy  of  My  Disciple,  thou  wilt  ever  devote  to  Me 
thy  affections;  thou  wilt  endeavor,  before  all  others, 
to  please  Me;  and  thou  wilt  carefully  avoid  what- 
ever thou  knowest  to  be  displeasing  to  Me. 

Tell  Me  what  sort  of  a love  that  is  which,  for  an 
empty  glory,  for  a sensual  delight,  or  for  any  other 
gratification  of  corrupt  nature,  does  not  hesitate, — not 
indeed  to  nail  Me  again  to  the  cross, — but  to  mock 
Me,  to  wound  Me,  and  to  fill  Me  with  bitterness. 

If  I did  not  love  thee  better,  if  I were  not  more 
concerned  about  thee,  what,  My  Child,  should 
become  of  thee?  If,  because  such,  and  such  other 
things,  do  not  utterly  destroy  thee,  I did  overlook 
them,  I did  not  heed  them;  what  shouldst  thou 
have  to  undergo  ? 

And  thou  longest  for  peace?  and  for  My  intimate 
friendship  ? and  for  My  consolations  ? and  freedom 
from  danger?  Behold!  even  by  venial  sin,  thou 
obstructest  the  source  of  all  these  blessings. 

Whence  arise  thy  troubles, — annoyances,  anxi- 
eties, dangers, — if  not  from  this,  that  thou  art  not 
willing  to  sacrifice,  with  a generous  heart,  those 
things  which  the  divine  love  demands  of  thee? 

Thou  callest  Me  thy  God:  thou  speakest  to  Me 
as  thy  Father:  nay  more,  thou  stylest  Me  thy 
Beloved:  but,  if  I am  thy  God,  where  is  My  honor? 
if  I am  thy  Father,  where  is  thy  love  for  Me?  if  I 
am  thy  Beloved,  where  is  thy  affection?  where  thy 
tenderness  ? 

If,  formerly,  thou  didst  so  offend:  if,  formerly, 
thou  wast  all  along  without  affection  for  Me:  now 
at  least,  be  thou  zealous  for  the  better  gifts;  and  I 
will  show  thee  a still  more  excellent  degree. 


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4.  This  is  the  third  degree  of  the  life  of  love,  of 
pure  love ; whereby  thou  lovest  Me  so  perfectly, 
that  thou  dost  will  and  not  will  the  same  with  Me; 
and  art  thus  in  all  things  conformed  to  the  divine 
Will. 

This,  My  Child,  is  the  perfection  of  love:  this 
is  the  true  union  of  hearts:  this  is  the  life  of  the 
Saints. 

This  pure  love  will  make  thee  abhor  the  same 
things  that  I abhor:  it  will  make  thee  delight  in 
the  same  things  wherein  I delight. 

For  pure  love,  true  union,  consists  in  an  effica- 
cious agreement  of  hearts.  Whatever  be  thy  own 
sentiments,  if  thou  dost  not  will  and  dislike  the 
same  with  Me;  if  thou  dost  not  think  the  same 
with  Me;  if,  as  far  as  the  divine  Will  requires,  thou 
dost  not  embrace  the  same  with  Me,  thy  love  is  not 
pure,  thy  union  is  not  true. 

Be  not  troubled,  however,  My  Child,  if  thou 
findest  it  sometimes  so  hard  to  conform  to  the  di 
vine  Will,  that  thou  appearest  to  do  it,  as  it  were, 
against  thy  own  will.  By  freely  conforming  thy- 
self, although  with  difficulty,  thou  wiliest  effectually 
that  which  I will.  Since,  unless  thou  didst  so  will, 
thou  wouldst  not  conform  thyself;  inasmuch  as  no 
one  can  will  against  his  will.  Whence  thou  per- 
ceivest  that  the  repugnance,  which  thou  feelest, 
resides  in  the  inferior  part  of  the  heart. 

5.  My  Child,  pure  love  directs  all  things  to  unity. 
Just  as  fire  changes  everything  thrown  upon  it  into 
itself. 

The  divine  Will  is  the  beginning,  and  the  man- 
ner, and  the  end  of  all  things,  which  it  does  or  suffers. 

It  transforms,  in  some  way,  all  virtues  into  it- 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


323 


self;  and  ennobles  them  by  its  own  excellence. 
Whosoever  loves  purely,  for  him  every  virtue  is 
love, — and  love  is  every  virtue. 

My  Child,  if  thou  hast  not  actually  reached  this 
oneness  of  love,  use  thy  endeavors;  accustom  thy- 
self to  live  by  love,  to  act  by  love,  to  suffer  by  love: 
thou  shalt  attain  to  it  afterwards. 

6.  My  Child,  love  thou  this  holy  love,  which 
alone  effects  many  things  replenished  with  sweet- 
ness, and  works  wonders. 

For  it  bedews  what  is  parched,  it  heals  what  is 
wounded,  it  bends  what  is  stiff,  it  warms  what  is 
cold,  it  guides  what  is  gone  astray. 

It  is  the  light  of  hearts,  the  best  of  consolers,  a 
delightful  guest  of  the  soul,  a sweet  refreshment: 
it  is  rest  in  toil,  it  is  a tempering  in  heat,  it  is  a com- 
fort in  mourning. 

It  sanctifies  and  elevates  innocent  souls  in  a 
wonderful  manner.  Remember  John,  the  beloved 
Disciple,  who,  at  the  Supper,  reclined  upon  My 
Breast;  how, — entranced  with  love, — he  winged 
his  flight  as  the  eagle. 

Remember  Martha,  who  ministered  to  Me;  how, 
inspired  with  love,  like  the  heliotrope,  she  was  ever 
turned  toward  Me;  exhaling  the  fragrance  of  every 
virtue. 

Remember  the  holy  Virgins  consecrated  to  Me; 
how,  raised  by  love  above  all  things  of  the  world, 
they  became  a spectacle,  wherewith  God  was  de- 
lighted, at  which  the  Angels  rejoiced,  whereby  the 
hearts  of  mortals  were  moved  toward  Me. 

Nay  more,  this  same  love  covers  a multitude  of 
sins,  destroys  them ; and  of  very  sinners  makes 
Saints.  Witness  the  Magdalen,  who,  by  purity  of 


324 


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love,  was  changed  into  a new  creature,  loving  with 
seraphic  ardor. 

Witness  Peter,  who,  making  amends  by  love 
for  his  denial,  became  the  Prince  of  the  chosen 
Apostles,  the  Shepherd  of  My  sheep  and  lambs,  the 
guide  of  holiness. 

Witness  Paul,  who,  transformed  by  love,  glowing 
with  love,  ran  through  the  world,  like  a fire  among 
the  dry  stubble,  and  spread  the  flames  of  love  among 
all  nations. 

7.  My  Child,  love  is  learnt  by  loving:  if  thou 
desirest  to  make  great  progress  in  the  art  of  divine 
love,  love  much. 

Do  not  rest  satisfied  with  a dry  love,  which  pos- 
sesses no  unction:  cherish  a love  full  of  affection. 
It  does  not,  indeed,  depend  upon  thee  to  feel  a 
sensible  love;  but  if  thou  dost  cherish  it,  thou  canst 
always  possess  an  affectionate  love. 

Thou  wilt  cherish  it  by  praying  devoutly,  by  ask- 
ing frequently  for  the  gift,  or  the  increase  of  the 
gift,  of  love;  by  conversing  with  Me,  more  by  af- 
fection than  by  reflection,  by  pouring  out  the 
heart  rather  than  by  busying  the  mind  before 
Me. 

Thou  wilt  cherish  it  by  possessing  a feeling  o . 
gratitude  for  all  the  favors  thou  hast  received  from 
Me:  life,  preservation,  all  the  gifts  of  nature:  re- 
demption, vocation,  grace,  all  the  means  of  salva- 
tion; in  short,  all  supernatural  favors. 

Thou  wilt  cherish  it  by  having  ever  present  be- 
fore thy  mind  how  greatly  I have  loved  thee,  how 
much  I have  done  for  thee,  how  much  I have  suf- 
fered for  thee:  what  I have  given  for  thee,  what  I 
have  prepared  for  thee  in  time  and  eternity:  how 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


3^5 


mercifully,  how  kindly,  how  gently,  I have  so  often 
specially  dealt  with  thee. 

Thou  wilt  cherish  it  by  remembering  who  and 
what  I am:  in  whom  the  Angels  and  Saints  in 
heaven,  and  the  Elect  on  earth,  ever  find  their  blessed- 
ness: who, — as  heaven  and  earth,  and  all  things 
therein  contained,  cry  out  with  one  consent, — * 
deserve  to  be  loved  with  thy  whole  heart,  with  all 
thy  strength. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O Jesus!  O love! 
what  marvelous,  what  divine,  what  delightful  things 
dost  Thou  disclose  out  of  Thy  Heart! 

O my  Saviour  God!  who  am  I,  and  who  art  Thou? 
Would  it  not  be  much,  yea  even  too  much,  shouldst 
Thou  merely  suffer  Thyself  to  be  loved  by  me? 

And, — lest,  perhaps,  I might  doubt,  whether  it 
be  allowed  to  me,  a wretched  creature,  to  aspire  to 
a place  in  Thy  divine  Heart, — Thou  hast  com- 
manded me  to  love  Thee.  O love!  O prodigy  of 
love!  O delight!  O most  sweet  Jesus! 

And  shall  I not  love  Thee?  shall  I not  hold  Thee 
supremely  dear?  Yea,  O Jesus,  with  all  my  heart 
will  I love  Thee:  with  all  my  strength  will  I cherish 
Thee. 

All  that  I am;  all  I possess;  all  Thy  gifts  and 
blessings;  heaven  and  earth;  all  things  incite  me 
to  love  Thee,  but  naught  so  much  as  Thou  Thyself, 
— who  art  the  cause  and  the  end,  the  object  and  the 
reward  of  love. 

O Lord  Jesus!  I have  no  other  ambition  than  to 
excel  in  love  for  Thee,  than  to  rival  the  Angels 
themselves  in  their  love  for  Thee. 

Let  others  surpass  me  in  all  other  things:  I will 
bear  it  easily,  I will  suffer  it  willingly:  but  how 


326 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


shall  I endure  this  one  thing,  to  be  below  others  in 
love  for  Thee?  how  shall  I bear  it? 

Oh  then!  Jesus,  Beloved  of  my  heart!  may  I 
become  alike  to  Thee,  all  love,  all  one  with  Thee  by 
love. 

O my  Jesus!  who  shall  grant  me,  that  I may  en- 
kindle the  whole  world  with  Thy  love!  that  I may 
draw  the  hearts  of  all  to  Thee;  inflame  them  with 
love  for  Thee! 

Grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that  we  all  may  live  by 
love  for  Thee,  and,  in  Thy  love,  may  spend  with 
Thee  a blissful  eternity. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  TEACHES 

US  TO  EXERT  OURSELVES  TO  MAKE  PROGRESS  IN 

VIRTUE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold,  My  Child,  I have 
done  all  things  well.  The  things  which  were  pleas- 
ing to  My  Father,  I did  always. 

Did  I ever  stand  still  in  those  things,  so  long  as 
I lived?  Now,  then,  whosoever  desires  to  remain 
with  Me,  must  also  walk  as  I did  walk.  For,  if  he 
stands  still,  whilst  I am  walking,  how  can  he  remain 
with  Me? 

My  Child,  true  virtue  stands  never  still  in  this 
life:  for,  if  it  neglects  to  make  further  progress,  it 
is  either  a failing  or  lukewarmness. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


327 


Let  him  who  is  just,  be  justified  still:  and  let 
him  who  is  holy,  be  still  sanctified. 

How  much  soever,  therefore,  any  one  may  have 
advanced  in  virtue,  he  must  and  can  advance  still 
further.  For,  either  something  better  can  be  done 
by  a person;  or  the  end  of  his  actions  can  become 
purer  through  love,  the  object  of  which  is  infinite: 
or  the  different  circumstances  of  the  actions  may 
be  performed  in  a manner  more  excellent. 

Hence,  My  Child,  if  thou  examinest  thyself  with 
an  upright  heart,  thou  shalt  find  sufficient  matter 
to  humble  thyself,  when  thou  findest  that  thou  hast 
often  been  deficient  in  some  part;  and  thou  shalt 
have,  at  the  same  time,  a powerful  incentive  to 
make  progress  for  love  of  Me, — who  lovingly  ap- 
prove, and  reward  in  a liberal  manner,  whatever  is 
good  in  thy  works;  who  endure,  or  even  pardon, 
when  asked  in  a contrite  manner,  that  which  is  de- 
fective. 

2.  Do  not  measure  thy  progress  by  natural  fa- 
cility, or  sensible  devotion,  or  any  other  natural 
disposition  whatsoever:  all  these  things  are  unre- 
liable and  deceitful. 

But  do  thou  measure,  reliably  and  safely,  thy 
progress  in  virtue,  by  the  efforts  which  thou  makest, 
generously  to  overcome  or  deny  thyself  for  love 
of  Me. 

Beware,  My  Child,  lest  thou  be  satisfied  with 
virtues  merely  natural.  For  these,  since  they  spring 
from  nature,  can  neither  bear  everlasting  fruits,  nor 
produce  flowers  of  heaven:  and,  if  they  put  forth 
any  buds,  or  bear  anything,  it  is  only  for  time  which 
soon  vanishes  away. 

Every  planting  which  God  has  not  set  out;  every 


328 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


plant  which  does  not  spring  from  divine  grace,— 
shall  be  rooted  up. 

Advance  thou  toward  things  more  perfect,  by 
means  of  solid  and  supernatural  virtues,  which, 
sprung  from  the  principle  of  grace,  become  strong 
and  perfect  by  generous  and  repeated  acts, — blos- 
som, and  bear  fruit  exceedingly,  for  life  everlast- 
ing. 

That  which  is  more  perfect  in  itself,  is  not  al- 
ways better  for  thee:  but  that  is  ever  more  useful 
to  thee  which  proceeds  from  the  divine  Will,  and, 
by  means  of  true  virtues,  helps  thee  to  reach  thy 
end. 

Some  there  are  who  place  progress  in  multiply- 
ing their  practices  of  piety:  others  make  it  consist 
in  performing  different  things.  And  all  these,  so 
far  from  making  any  progress,  are  not  rarely  wont 
to  go  backward;  both  because  perfection  does  not 
consist  in  these  things, — as  they  are  simply  means 
of  perfection;  and  because,  being  hindered  by  the 
multiplicity  and  unsuitableness  of  the  means,  they 
are  unable  to  reach  the  goal. 

3.  Assuredly,  My  Child,  more  perfect  in  My 
sight  is  the  simple  servant-maid, — who,  through 
love  for  Me,  does  that  which,  according  to  her  state 
and  employment,  the  divine  Will  requires, — than 
the  religious  person,  who,  neglectful  of  the  duties 
of  her  calling  and  office,  passes  days  and  nights  in 
prayer,  or  in  shedding  tears,  through  feelings  of 
devotion. 

If  thou  desirest  to  perform  thy  employment  prop- 
erly, first  of  all,  esteem  and  love  it, — not  be- 
cause it  suits  thy  inclination,  but  because  it  is  the 
divine  Will,  which  renders  even  the  least  things 


CHAPTER  XXVI.  329 

both  excellent  and  precious.  For,  unless  thou 
esteemest  the  same,  thou  wilt  not  long  love  it:  if 
thou  dost  not  love  it,  thou  wilt  not  long  discharge 
it  properly;  because, — when  the  understanding  and 
will  do  not  help  but  rather  oppose  thee, — thou 
canst  not  long  act  and  suffer  in  a befitting  manner. 

Again,  do  not  have  for  object, — nor  seek  in  or 
by  it, — thyself,  or  the  gratifications  of  nature:  but 
Me,  and  the  fulfillment  of  My  Will. 

Moreover,  perform  all  the  duties  of  thy  employ- 
ment, firmly  indeed  in  the  action, — being  intent 
on  obtaining  the  end  according  to  the  divine  good 
pleasure; — but  gently  in  the  manner,  remaining 
over  tranquil  in  the  use  of  the  means. 

Lastly,  accustom  thyself  to  do  all  things  belong- 
ing to  it  for  love  of  Me;  who  am  present,  and  ready 
to  direct  and  help  thee  in  particular  circumstances. 
Thus  thou  wilt  perform  all  more  easily  and  securely, 
and  persevere  in  so  doing. 

But  whether  thou  fulfillest  the  obligations  of  thy 
state,  or  appliest  thyself  to  spiritual  exercises,  let 
thy  chief  care  be  to  do  all  this  well.  Here  lies 
the  fruitful  field  of  genuine  virtues:  here  is  the 
plentiful  harvest  of  true  merits. 

If  thou  neglectest  this,  remember  that  all  other 
extraordinary  things  are  deceitful.  Neither  mira- 
cles, nor  prophecies,  nor  ecstasies,  nor  other  gifts 
of  what  kind  soever, — shouldst  thou  possess  these, 
— are  able  to  sanctify  thee. 

4.  My  Child,  if  thou  art  really  solicitous  about 
thy  progress,  thou  must  will  it  efficaciously.  For 
perfection,  and  progress  therein,  after  grace,  cannot 
come,  except  from  a heart  that  wills  it. 

If  thy  heart  do  not  will  efficiently,  no  means  shall 


330 


THE  SECOND  BOOK. 


ever  be  able  to  make  thee  perfect;  thou  canst  no. 
come  to  Me  by  compulsion,  but  only  by  affection. 

Call  to  mind  how  many  Saints,  amidst  the  great- 
est obstacles,  with  few  outward  means,  have  reached 
the  very  height  of  virtue ; because  their  heart  thirsted 
unceasingly  for  perfection. 

Blessed  are  they  that  hunger  and  thirst  after 
justice;  for  they  shall  have  their  fill!  If  any  one 
thirsts  after  this,  let  him  come  to  My  Heart,  and 
drink  of  the  fountain  of  living  water,  springing  up 
into  life  everlasting. 

Come,  My  Child,  and  taste  at  this  fountain,  how 
pleasant  it  is  to  serve  Me  by  love:  and  as,  after 
tasting  honey,  all  other  nourishment  seems  lacking 
in  sweetness,  so,  when  thou  hast  once  tasted  the 
sweetness  of  My  divine  love,  all  the  food  of  corrupt 
nature  will  become  bitter  to  thee. 

Pray,  My  Child,  pray  fervently,  that  thou  mayst 
be  enlightened  from  above  to  understand  the  ex- 
ceeding value  of  perfection;  and  that  thou  mayst 
be  enkindled  with  a ceaseless  longing  of  attaining 
thereto. 

Frequently,  also,  call  to  mind  how  many,  and 
what  powerful  incentives  urge  thee  on  to  greater 
perfection. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Which  are  those, 
Lord? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Consider,  My  Child,  who 
He  is  whom  thou  servest:  how  lovely,  by  reason 
of  His  infinite  perfections, — which  ravish  the  very 
hearts  of  the  inhabitants  of  heaven;  and  thou  shalt 
be  aroused  to  My  service,  so  full  of  love  and  sweet- 
ness. 

Remember  the  favors  of  every  kind  which  I 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


331 


heaped  upon  thee  through  pure  charity:  and,  if  thy 
heart  has  not  lost  all  sense  of  feeling,  thou  wilt  love 
Me,  in  return,  with  singular  gratefulness. 

Weigh  the  enormity  and  multitude  of  thy  sins, 
which  I pardoned  thee,  with  a Heart  so  paternal; 
and  wilt  thou  think,  after  this,  that  thou  canst  ever 
do  enough  for  Me? 

Think  on  the  manifold  and  continued  unhappi- 
ness of  them  that  are  lying  iru  sin  and  lukewarm- 
ness; and  again,  on  the  unuttered  felicity  of  them 
that  serve  Me  with  fervent  love. 

Look  upon  the  marvelous  beauty  of  virtue,  and 
the  unspeakable  ugliness  of  vice:  how  the  former 
unites  men  with  Angels,  and  the  latter  makes  them 
alike  to  demons. 

Meditate  on  the  shortness  of  this  life,  and  the 
eternity  of  the  life  to  come:  the  certainty  of  death, 
and  the  uncertainty  of  its  hour. 

Ponder,  with  mind  and  heart,  what  it  is  to  be  in 
hell  without  end:  what  it  means  to  be  in  heaven 
throughout  all  eternity : and  remember  that  the 
one  or  the  other  awaits  thee. 

My  Child,  if  thou  dost  frequently  and  attentively 
consider  these  things,  so  as  to  keep  them  ever  fresh 
before  thee,  thou  wilt  hasten  on  to  further  prog- 
ress. 

6.  But  in  many  ways  is  a person  turned  away 
from  progress.  For  the  most  part,  however,  he  be- 
gins to  go  astray,  either  because  he  suffers  the  love 
of  Me  to  grow  lukewarm  in  his  heart, — by  neglect- 
ing the  fervent  practices  of  an  inward  life;  or  be- 
cause, for  the  sake  of  indulging  nature,  he  refuses 
to  overcorm  or  deny  himself  in  some  thing. 

There  are  some  who  do  not,  indeed,  forsake  the 


332 


the  second  book. 


road  of  progress;  but  who,  in  various  ways,  retard 
their  successful  career.  In  this  manner  do  they 
stand  still,  who,  whilst  they  should  be  hastening 
onward,  squander  their  time,  in  looking,  with  self- 
delight, over  the  distance  which  they  have  already 
passed. 

My  Child,  forget  the  things  which  are  behind, 
being  certain  to  whom  thou  hast  intrusted  them: 
and  pass  over  the  remainder  of  thy  journey  with 
unwearied  steps. 

They,  also,  are  hindered  from  advancing,  who 
proceed  so  cautiously,  that  they  appear  desirous  of 
examining,  at  every  step,  where  to  set  their  foot. 
But,  My  Child,  trust  thou  rather  in  Me  than  in  thy- 
self; and,  using  a reasonable  diligence,  with  a cour- 
ageous effort  of  divine  love,  fly  thou  forward  through 
every  obstacle  toward  thy  end. 

They,  too,  are  kept  back,  who  frighten  the  imagi- 
nation and  fetter  the  heart  by  future  difficulties, 
which,  perhaps,  will  never  occur;  so  that,  through 
fear  and  faintheartedness,  they  hardly  dare  or  can 
move.  My  Child,  sufficient  for  the  day  is  the  evil 
thereof : to-day,  therefore,  advance  thou  cheer- 
fully: leave  the  future  to-morrow  to  Me:  I will 
provide. 

7.  Remember,  My  Child,  that,  by  the  weight  of 
nature,  thou  art  ever  prone  to  a certain  inactivity, 
or  indolent  repose.  Often,  therefore,  thou  must 
stir  up  the  will  by  the  fervor  of  the  spirit,  and  take 
fresh  courage. 

If  thou  yieldest  to  this  natural  indolence,  if  thou 
givest  up  the  efficacious  will  of  perfection,  thou 
wilt  no  longer  perform  anything  worthy  of  a Dis- 
ciple of  My  Heart:  thou  shalt  begin  to  grow  slug- 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


333 


gish,  to  fall  away,  to  be  filled  with  miseries,  and  to 
experience  unhappiness. 

A soul  possessed  of  a resolute  will,  fervent  and 
cheerful,  acquires  in  a few  months,  that  degree  of 
virtue,  to  which  a slothful  soul,  ever  in  distress  and 
groaning,  cannot  attain  in  many  years. 

My  Child,  if  thou  possessest  a determined  will 
of  always  advancing,  thou  hast  reason  to  rejoice 
exceedingly.  For  a good  will  of  this  sort  is  a man- 
ifest proof  of  the  divine  friendship.  And  this  is 
the  sweetest  and,  at  the  same  time,  the  most  solid 
of  ail  consolations. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O good  Master, 
most  sweet  Jesus,  model  of  every  virtue  I I feel 
wholly  confounded,  for  that  I have  not  yet  taken 
pains  to  conform  myself  perfectly  to  Thee,  although 
X have  long  made  profession  of  being  Thy  Disciple. 

Have  pity  on  me,  Lord;  suffer  not,  I beseech 
Thee,  that  I succumb  to  lukewarmness,  yield  to 
natural  indolence,  or  be  impeded  by  any  other 
hindrance:  but  arouse  me,  goad  me  on,  impel  me 
by  Thy  grace. 

Give  me  the  fervor  of  Thy  Heart;  kindle  in  my 
heart  the  fire,  which  Thou  earnest  to  cast  on  earth; 
that  I may  love  Thee  more  ardently,  that  I may  be 
more  perfectly  conformed  to  Thee,  that  I may  fol- 
low Thee  more  closely. 

Renew  me  wholly,  I entreat  Thee;  take  away 
my  slothful  and  wretched  spirit,  and  enliven  me 
with  Thy  Spirit, — the  Spirit  of  an  everglowing  love, 
ever  cheerful, — that  never  suffers  me  to  grow  slug- 
gish, but  urges  me  on  strongly  and  gently  to  a more 
perfect  Imitation  of  Thyself, — who  alone  art  the 
way  and  the  goal  of  everlasting  bliss. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


i.  The  aim  of  the  Third  Book  is  to  teach  us 
how  to  tend  to  that  holiness  which  is  called  per- 
fection. This  holiness  is  acquired  by  virtues  which 
are,  in  some  manner,  heroic;  such  as  are  usually 
practiced  by  them  that  bear  their  sufferings  with 
the  proper  disposition  of  heart.  Certain  it  is,  as  is 
proved  by  the  example  of  all  the  Saints,  that  no 
one  ever  attained  to  true  sanctity  if  he  did  not 
practice  solid,  and  in  some  manner  heroic,  virtues 
in  suffering.  And  this  is  not  to  be  understood  of 
those  Saints  only  whom  the  Church  has  canonized, 
but  of  all  those  as  well,  who,  although  not  canon- 
ized, strove  to  acquire  that  sanctity  which  Christ 
Our  Lord  taught  to  all  by  His  word  and  example; 
and  which  each  one’s  mode  of  life  may  enable  him 
to  reach.  Of  all  these  noble  virtues,  whereby  sanc- 
tity is  acquired,  Jesus,  in  His  suffering  life,  fur- 
nishes us  the  most  beautiful  living  examples,  full 
of  encouragement  and  consolation.  In  His  active 
life  the  virtues  of  His  Heart  do,  indeed,  shine  forth 
cleaily  and  constantly;  and,  gently  and  powerfully 
at  the  same  time,  persuade  and  allure  him,  who 
meditates  thereon,  to  a proper  imitation  of  them: 
but,  in  His  suffering  life,  they  glitter  with  all  their 

334 


DIRECTORY  EOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


335 


perfection  and  splendor,  and  do  not  merely  attract 
the  person  who  meditates,  but  they  also  forcibly 
stimulate  and  urge  him  onward.  Therefore,  it  is 
useful  that  we  should  first  have  meditated  on  His 
active  life,  and  become  initiated  in  the  virtues  of 
His  Heart,  when  acting;  and  that  we  should  even 
have  made  some  progress  therein,  lest  the  grandeur 
and  sublimity  of  the  virtues  of  His  suffering  Heart 
might  frighten  or  discourage  us. 

Now,  this  sanctity  has  two  degrees:  and  each  de- 
gree contains  three  methods. 

In  the  first  degree,  all  those  things  which  can- 
not be  avoided  are  religiously  endured:  according 
to  the  first  method,  they  are  endured  with  patience; 
according  to  the  second,  with  agreement  of  our  will 
with  that  of  God;  according  to  the  third,  with  a 
certain  supernatural  joy. 

In  the  second  degree,  all  those  things  are  en- 
dured which  may,  in  some  manner,  be  avoided; 
but  which,  when  offered,  are  accepted  with  a free 
will,  or  are  voluntarily  sought  after  and  assumed. 
And,  by  conformity  of  our  will  to  the  divine  Will, 
all  these  things  are  borne;  first,  through  love  of 
Jesus,  for  some  supernatural  end;  for  example,  to 
make  amends  for  the  insults  offered  to  Him,  for 
the  conversion  of  sinners,  for  the  perseverance  of 
the  just,  for  the  obtaining  of  this  or  that  good; 
secondly,  through  a desire  of  conformity  with  Jesus, 
and  of  the  fruits  to  be  gathered  from  this  conformity 
so  holy  and  so  full  of  love;  thirdly,  through  the 
purest  love,  so  that,  laying  aside,  as  far  as  we  may, 
every  private  consideration,  we  become  uniform 
with  Jesus,  and  thus  well-pleasing  to  Him. 

2.  Be  persuaded  that,  in  whatsoever  state  or  con- 


336  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

dition  of  life  you  may  be,  you  will  really  become  a 
Saint  if  you  suffer  rightly  those  things  which  the 
Lord  will  give  you  to  suffer.  For,  if  you  merit 
and  make  progress  by  every  single  act  of  a common 
or  ordinary  virtue,  how  much  more  will  you  gain 
and  advance  by  acts  of  heroic  virtue; — such  as  are 
frequently  wont  to  be  performed  in  times  of  mis- 
fortune! 

Remember  what  it  is  you  merit  by  every  act  of 
an  ordinary  virtue,  when  rightly  performed  in  the 
state  of  grace:  first,  a new  degree,  or  increase  of 
sanctifying  grace, — which  you  receive  immediately, 
and  whereby  you  become  more  perfect  in  yourself, 
and  dearer  to  the  Lord:  again,  at  the  same  time,  a 
new  and  corresponding  degree  of  glory  or  everlast- 
ing bliss, — which  you  shall  receive  in  heaven,  where 
it  is  treasured  up  and  awaiting  you.  And  these 
two  you  gain  condignly , that  is,  according  to  merit; 
so  that  they  are  justly  due  to  you,  according  to 
that  promise,  by  which  God  has,  freely  indeed, 
but  truly,  obligated  Himself.  This  kind  of  merit 
which  is  strictly  called  merit,  is  personal,  and  not 
communicated  with  others. 

Moreover,  you  can  merit  a certain  degree  or 
special  help  of  actual,  even  efficacious  grace, — 
whereby  the  understanding  is  enlightened  and  di- 
rected, and  the  will  encouraged  and  strengthened 
to  avoid  evil,  and  to  do  good:  and  over  and  above 
as  it  were,  a part  of  the  great  gift  of  final  perse- 
verance. But  these  two  you  can  only  merit  con- 
gruously, or  according  to  propriety, — so  that  they 
are  never  due  to  you  by  justice,  but  simply  by  a 
suitableness  or  becomingness,  and  by  the  divine 
liberality.  For  to  these  God  has  not  bound  Him- 


DIRECTORY  EOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


337 


self  by  any  promise.  As,  however,  He  is  supremely 
liberal,  it  is  befitting  in  Him,  that  even  so  He  re- 
ward our  supernatural  acts:  neither  has  He  given 
us  any  reason  for  fearing  that  we  shall  be  disap- 
pointed. In  this  wise  you  cannot  only  merit  these 
two  for  yourself,  but  also  for  others. 

Now,  these  degrees,  which  you  merit  through 
virtue,  may  be  greater  or  smaller, — according  as 
the  meritorious  acts  are  more  or  less  perfect.  For 
it  may  happen,  that  one  heroic  act,  whereby,  with 
a noble  and  generous  heart,  you  sacrifice  or  endure 
something  perfectly,  merits  more  for  you  than  a 
hundred,  a thousand  or  even  more  ordinary  acts. 
And,  indeed,  St.  Chrysostom  asserts  that  holy  Job, 
by  the  one  act  whereby,  amid  his  misfortunes,  he 
conformed  himself  to  the  Will  of  God,  merited 
more  than  by  all  the  acts  which  he  performed  through- 
out the  whole  of  his  previous  life,  in  the  days  of 
his  prosperity. 

We  should  be  mindful  of  these  things,  during 
our  short-lived  existence,  which  has  been  granted 
us,  that  we  may  gather  merits  for  all  eternity.  For 
they  will  help  us  to  avoid  those  delusions  which 
are  peculiar  to  this  part  of  the  interior  life.  Of 
which  this  one  is  wont  to  be  the  more  common: 
To  hearken  too  much  to  the  feelings  or  repugnances 
of  nature,  thus  fixing  our  attention  on  the  second- 
ary causes  of  our  afflictions,  and  to  decline,  under 
some  pretext  or  other,  the  sufferings  presented  to 
us  by  Our  Lord,  or  at  least  bear  them  with  an  ill- 
disposed  heart;  or  even  to  seek  another  way  than 
the  one  through  which  Jesus  Himself  walked, — 
which  He  smoothed  for  us,  by  which  He  calls  us, 
that  with  all  His  Saints  we  may  follow  Him  with 


338  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

the  same  disposition  of  heart  with  which  He  has 
gone  before  us. 

3 Wherefore,  when  you  are  occupied  with  the 
things  treated  in  this  Book,  you  should  assidu- 
ously look  and  aim  at  this,  that  you  understand,  as 
perfectly  as  you  can,  not  only  the  unspeakable  af- 
flictions and  sorrows  of  the  Son  of  God;  but,  espe- 
cially, the  affections  and  dispositions  of  His  Heart. 
For  here  a measureless  treasure  lies  concealed, 
which  a diligent  and  fervent  searcher  alone  can  find 
and  explore.  The  more  attentively  and  devotedly 
you  shall  meditate  on  the  Heart  of  your  suffering 
Lord,  the  more  perfect  things  you  shall  find,  and 
the  more  possessions  you  shall  acquire. 

4.  The  method  of  using  this  Book, — beside  the 
two  given  before  the  First  Book,  and  which  may 
also  be  employed  here, — is  of  two  kinds:  both  of 
wrhich  are  placed  before  the  Second  Book,  and  which 
are  here  adapted  to  the  meditation  or  contemplation 
of  the  Passion  of  Jesus  Christ. 

In  meditating,  therefore,  let  the  memory  propose 
some  virtue,  according  to  the  particular  period  of 
the  Passion  of  our  Lord:  and  let  it  remember  the 
same  after  the  meditation,  so  that  you  may  be  able 
suitably  to  practice  it. 

Let  the  understanding  meditate  on  the  virtue, — 
examining  its  causes  and  ends,  its  modes  and  its 
circumstances : considering  with  what  dispositions 
of  Heart  Jesus  practiced  that  virtue:  then  compare 
the  state  of  your  heart  in  its  regard:  afterward, 
look  back  and  examine  your  past  life  concerning 
the  same;  return  thanks,  and  ask  for  perseverance, 
if  hitherto  you  have  duly  practiced  it:  if  the  con- 
trary, make  an  art  of  contrition,  and,  through  the 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


339 


suffering  Heart  of  Jesus,  ask  for  pardon:  finally, 
look  to  the  future  and  see  when,  and  how,  you  may 
practice  this  same  virtue. 

Let  the  will  embrace  the  virtue,  perform  interior 
acts  of  it,  and  resolve  to  practice  it,  both  inwardly 
and  outwardly,  at  the  proper  time;  frequently  in- 
sisting, meanwhile,  on  pious  affections  and  peti- 
tions. 

But  in  contemplating,  see  what  Jesus  suffers,  and 
under  what  circumstances,  in  this  mystery,  or  par- 
ticular subject:  who  He  is  that  thus  suffers,  from 
whom,  and  for  whom. 

Afterwards,  give  ear  to  the  words  which  Jesus 
there  utters;  or  observe  how  He  is  silent,  and  in- 
teriorly pours  forth  the  prayers  of  His  Heart  to 
God  the  Father. 

Lastly,  look  devoutly  and  attentively  into  the 
Heart  of  Jesus;  see  how  that  Heart  is  disposed, 
from  which  things  so  heroic  proceed.  And  through- 
out the  contemplation,  as  much  as  you  can,  give 
yourself  up  to  pious  effusions  of  heart,  both  by  acts 
and  petitions. 

The  acts  in  which  you  employ  yourself,  during 
meditation  or  contemplation,  may  be  various  or  dif- 
ferent; according  as  you  feel  affected,  or  according 
as  you  may  need,  or  even  according  as  you  may  be 
moved  interiorly  by  the  Spirit  of  God. 

You  may  usefully  exercise  your  faith,  and  fre- 
quently excite  lively  acts  of  it,  by  acknowledging 
in  every  mystery  Jesus  as  God,  and  by  adoring  Him 
in  His  humiliations  and  sufferings,  by  which  the 
Divinity,  in  some  manner,  hides  itself  for  love  of  us. 

It  will  also  help,  often  and  sweetly,  to  indulge  in 
hope,  being  persuaded  that  if,  by  a gratuitous  love, 


340 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


the  Lord  did  and  endured  so  much  in  order  to  save 
you  when  every  way  undeserving;  now,  that  you 
are  wiiling  to  co-operate,  He  will  not  refuse  you 
what  is  beyond  comparison  less,  namely,  the  means 
of  salvation  and  perfection. 

Your  heart  will,  in  some  manner,  spontaneously, 
be  enkindled  with  love  for  Jesus,  your  God  and 
Saviour,  when  you  see  how  He  suffers  for  love  of 
you.  For,  since  He  suffered  and  died  for  all  and 
every  one,  each  one  can  and  must  truly  say:  “ Jesus 
loved  me,  and  delivered  Himself  up  for  me.”  (Gal. 
ii.  20.) 

Frequently  occupy  your  heart  with  abhorrence 
and  detestation  of  sin;  seeing  what  torments  the 
Son  of  God  endured  for  it  in  His  most  sacred  Hu- 
manity. 

Hatred  for  the  wicked  world  will  spring  up  in 
your  heart,  if  you  attend  to  what,  and  how  im- 
mensely, Jesus  suffered  from  the  same  world. 

Compassion  for  Jesus  suffering  will  take  wholly 
possession  of  you,  if  you  look  at  Him  with  a de- 
voted and  sympathizing  heart. 

You  will  feel  a fervent  zeal  to  compensate  for 
the  affronts  so  unworthily  offered  to  Him;  for 
which  end  you  will  frequently  offer  up  your  own 
pious  desires,  good  works,  and  sufferings. 

You  should,  above  all,  study  attentively  in  each 
mystery  the  dispositions  and  sentiments  of  the  Heart 
of  Jesus  suffering,  and  make  the  same  your  own. 
For,  unless  you  do  this,  you  may  indeed  meditate 
on  the  Passion  of  Jesus,  but  you  cannot  imitate 
His  Heart:  you  may  indeed  suffer,  but  you  cannot 
suffer  profitably:  you  may  be  burdened  with  the 
cross,  but  you  cannot  follow  Jesus. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


34* 


The  petitions,  which  it  is  proper  to  make,  may 
be  various,  as  well  as  different.  Yea,  the  objects 
of  the  petitions  have  so  wide  a scope,  that  it  is  not 
easy  to  find  a limit  for  them.  For  you  may  ask 
for  the  gift,  or  for  an  increase,  of  faith,  hope,  charity; 
of  horror  of  sin  and  detestation  of  the  world;  of 
compassion  for  Jesus  and  zeal  for  His  honor;  lastly, 
of  all  virtues  and  graces;  and  this  not  for  your- 
self alone,  but  also  for  every  one  of  your  neighbors 
— as  was  said  before  the  Second  Book,  and  is  here 
repeated,  in  order  to  impress  deeply  on  the  mind 
that  which  cannot  be  too  much  inculcated,  that 
the  affections  or  acts  of  virtues  and  petitions  are 
of  the  utmost  importance;  since  from  them,  after 
grace,  the  unction  of  prayer  and  its  chief  fruit  are 
wont  to  be  derived. 

5.  As  regards  the  discernment  of  spirits,  the  fol- 
lowing rules,  which  are  here  peculiarly  appropriate, 
are  given  by  the  Saints. 

The  first.  That  is  properly  called  spiritual  con- 
solation, when  interiorly  there  is  excited  some 
emotion,  whereby  the  soul  is  enkindled  with  divine 
love;  wdiether  directly, — as  when  she  is  inflamed 
with  the  love  of  God  on  account  of  the  divine  good- 
ness; or  whether  indirectly,  as  when  she  is  moved 
to  the  divine  love  by  considering  the  Passion  of 
Jesus  Christ,  or  by  sorrow  for  sins  committed  against 
the  Lord,  or  by  any  other  cause  whatsoever, — 
rightly  ordered  to  the  service  of  God.  Again, 
every  increase  of  faith,  of  hope,  of  charity,  is  also 
a spiritual  consolation.  Lastly,  every  inw^ard  joy, 
which  stirs  up  the  soul  to  supernal  things,  to  salva- 
tion and  perfection,  and  renders  her  tranquil  in  the 
Lord,  is  likewise  a spiritual  consolation. 


342 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


The  second.  Whatever  is  contrary  to  the  things 
pointed  out  in  the  preceding  rule,  is  called  spiritual 
desolateness:  as  a darkening  of  the  soul,  disturb- 
ance, or  a certain  sluggishness;  an  agitation  which 
moves  her  to  diffidence,  which  opposes  hope  or 
charity;  finally,  any  instigation  to  the  low  things 
of  nature,  interior  sadness, — -which  makes  the  mind 
dejected  or  restless. 

The  third.  To  God  alone  it  belongs  to  give  con- 
solation to  the  soul,  without  any  preceding  cause: 
since  it  is  peculiar  to  the  Creator  to  enter  His  creature, 
to  draw,  to  turn,  to  change  it  wholly  to  the  love 
of  Himself.  And  then  do  we  say,  that  no  cause 
precedes,  when  the  consolation  is  imparted  with- 
out any  previous  feeling  or  thought  of  any  ob- 
ject, whence  such  a consolation  might  come  to  the 
soul  by  the  acts  of  her  own  understanding  or  will. 

The  jourth.  When  a cause  of  consolation  did 
precede,  then  the  evil  as  well  as  the  good  Spirit 
can,  in  some  manner,  give  consolation  to  the  soul, 
but  for  contrary  ends:  the  good  one,  for  the  ad- 
vancement of  the  soul,  that  she  may  act  rightly, 
and  ascend  from  good  to  better;  but  the  evil  one, 
for  the  opposite,  that  she  may  be  perverted  and 
ruined. 

The  fifth.  In  time  of  desolateness,  no  change  should 
ever  be  made:  but  we  must  stand,  firmly  and  man- 
fully, in  the  intentions  and  resolves  in  which  we  were 
during  the  time  that  preceded  this  kind  of  deso- 
lateness. Because,  as,  during  spiritual  consolation, 
the  good  Spirit  is  more  wont  to  move  us,  and  we 
also  use  more  readily  our  natural  powers;  so,  in 
time  of  desolateness,  the  evil  spirit  does  rather  stir 
us  up,  at  whose  instigation, — whilst  our  faculties 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


343 


are  more  or  less  impeded, — we  can  hardly  take  safe 
counsels  to  act  rightly. 

The  sixth.  Although,  in  time  of  desolateness,  we 
ought  not  to  change  our  former  resolutions,  yet  it 
is  very  useful  to  change  our  manner  of  acting,  so 
that  we  may  fight  against  the  desolateness  itself; 
first,  by  giving  ourselves  more  to  prayer;  secondly, 
by  examining  ourselves  the  more,  in  order  to  hum- 
ble and  throw  ourselves  into  the  divine  mercy  of 
the  Heart  of  Jesus;  thirdly,  by  exercising  our- 
selves more  in  performing  works  of  penance  or 
charity  in  a prudent  manner. 

The  seventh.  He  who  suffers  from  desolateness 
should  remember  that  he  is  being  tried  by  our 
Lord,  left  to  his  own  natural  powers  with  an  ordi- 
nary grace,  and  also  a special  one,  although  not 
sensible;  that  thus,  by  resisting  the  various  instiga- 
tions of  the  enemy,  he  may  display  the  fidelity  of 
his  love.  For  he  is  able  to  resist,  with  the  divine 
grace,  which  remains  with  him, — although  he  does 
not  sensibly  experience  the  same. 

And  let  him  who  enjoys  consolation  consider 
how  he  will  conduct  himself  in  the  desolateness 
which  is  about  to  come  upon  him:  let  him  gather 
new  strength  to  bear  up  against  future  desolateness: 
let  him  strive  to  humble  himself  at  the  thought  of 
how  little  he  is  able  to  do,  when  not  specially  and 
sensibly  assisted  by  our  Lord. 

Finally,  let  him  who  is  in  desolateness,  as  well  as 
the  one  who  is  in  consolation,  take  care  to  apply 
himself  to  acquire,  or  to  strengthen,  solid  virtues, 
and  thus  sanctify  himself. 

St.  Ignat.,  St.  Bonaventure,  St.  Mary  Magd.  of  Pazzi. 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


ADMONITIONS  USEFUL  TO  IMITATE  THE 
MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  HIS 
LIFE  OF  SUFFERING. 


CHAPTER  I. 

HOW  GREATLY  WE  SHOULD  ESTEEM  HOLINESS,  AND 
HOW  MUCH  WE  SHOULD  STRIVE  AETER  IT. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Be  thou  holy,  My  Child, 
because  I am  holy.  Whosoever  longs  to  be  a per- 
fect Disciple  of  My  Heart,  strives  to  become  holy, 
as  I also  am  holy,  by  an  interior,  true,  and  solid 
holiness. 

Holiness  is  a great  good,  it  contains  all  blessings 
desirable  upon  earth,  and  begets  everlasting  bliss  in 
heaven. 

Holiness  is  the  completion  of  virtue,  the  guard- 
ian of  sanctifying  grace,  the  preserver  of  inward 
peace,  the  nurse  of  the  heart’s  joy,  and  of  ever- 
enduring  happiness. 

Holiness  is  true  wisdom,  real  glory,  inexhaustible 
wealth. 

To  be  the  least  of  the  Saints  is  something  incom- 

344 


CHAPTER  I. 


parably  greater  than  to  be  the  greatest  of  the  whole 
world. 

What  is  there  in  this  world  that  can  justly  be 
compared  with  holiness?  not  science,  not  dignity, 
not  renown,  not  the  possession  of  all  riches.  For  all 
these  things  are  only  of  earth,  they  last  but  for  a 
moment;  like  vapors  in  the  air,  they  glisten  and 
soon  disappear.  But  holiness  is  heaven-born  and 
permanent,  it  glitters  before  the  inhabitants  of 
heaven  like  the  sun ; yea,  when  the  sun  fades  away,  it 
shall  continue  to  shine  for  evermore. 

Let  not,  then,  the  wise  man  glory  in  his  wisdom, 
let  not  the  strong  man  glory  in  his  strength,  let  not 
the  rich  man  glory  in  his  wealth:  but  he  that  glories, 
let  him  glory  in  this,  that  he  knows  and  loves  Me; 
that,  through  love,  he  follows  Me,  and  thus  sanc- 
tifies himself. 

My  Child,  if  thou  understandest  not  these  things 
at  present  thou  shalt  understand  them  later,  even 
in  spite  of  thyself, — when,  at  the  near  approach  of 
death,  thou  shalt  entertain  more  correct  sentiments. 

Tell  Me,  if  this  day  thou  hadst  to  die,  which 
wouldst  thou  rather  desire,  to  be  a Saint,  or  to  have 
been  a king  or  a Pope?  Would  to  God, — ex- 
claimed, when  dying,  one  who  had  been  a ruler, 
and  had  some  experience  in  the  matter, — would  to 
God  that  I had  never  been  a ruler,  but,  in  its  stead, 
the  least  of  God’s  holy  servants!  Would,  sighed 
another,  that  I had  not  worn  the  tiara,  but  had 
passed  my  life  in  the  kitchen  of  some  house  conse- 
crated to  God! 

Thou  canst  not  value  holiness  too  highly,  since  I 
Myself  have  held  it  in  such  esteem  that,  to  make  it 
possible  and  easy,  I poured  out  the  treasures  of  My 


346 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Heart,  multiplied  the  means  at  My  greatest  costs, 
and  ordered  all  things  for  the*  sanctification  of  the 
Elect. 

Do  thou,  therefore,  aspire  to  so  great  a good,  My 
Child:  and  strive,  magnanimously,  to  become  a 
Saint. 

2.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — I become  a Saint, 
Lord!  Ah  me,  Lord  Jesus!  for  that,  I have  sinned 
too  much  during  my  life.  And  would  it  not  be 
pride  to  feel  such  a presumption?  and,  moreover, 
I am  so  weak  that  I am  unable  to  perform  any- 
thing worthy  of  sanctity. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Dost  thou  say  these  things 
of  Thyself,  My  Child,  or  have  others  suggested  it 
to  thee?  If  of  thyself,  thou  art  mistaken:  if  at 
the  suggestion  of  others,  thou  hast  been  deceived. 

And  first,  if  thou  hast  sinned  during  thy  life,  be- 
hold! this  is  a new  reason  why  thou  shouldst  sanc- 
tify thyself,  that  thus,  by  the  future,  thou  mayst 
make  amends  for  the  past. 

But,  My  Child,  there  is  no  question  of  what  thou 
hast  been,  but  of  what  thou  oughtest  to  be  here- 
after. 

How  many  souls  there  are  that,  after  having 
committed  sins,  have  reached,  in  a shorter  time,  a 
higher  degree  of  perfection  than  others  that  have 
ever  remained  innocent!  and  this,  because  they 
used  the  remembrance  of  the  sins  which  they  had 
unfortunately  committed,  and  which  had  been  most 
mercifully  forgiven  by  Me,  as  a spur,  to  urge  and 
goad  themselves  on  to  sanctity. 

The  sins  that  have  been  committed  are,  there- 
fore, not  only  no  hindrances,  but,  if  thou  art  will- 
ing, may  be  instruments  of  holiness. 


CHAPTER  I. 


347 


Besides,  My  Child,  to  strive  after  the  perfection 
of  virtue,  to  aspire  to  sanctity,  is  not  pride  nor  pre- 
sumption, but  greatness,  but  nobleness  of  soul, 
without  which  no  one  is  worthy  to  be  a Disciple  of 
My  Heart. 

These  things  I say:  and  take  heed  which  of  the 
two  thou  wilt  believe,  Me,  or  the  spirit,  thy  enemy, 
who  suggests  the  contrary. 

Bew^are,  My  Child,  lest,  after  being  deluded,  thou 
become  fainthearted,  and,  consequently,  incapable 
of  aspiring  to  those  things  which  alone  are  most 
deserving  of  the  aspirations  of  every  noble  heart. 

Raise  thy  courage,  cast  aside  all  littleness  of 
heart,  and  cherish  sentiments  worthy  of  a Disciple 
of  My  Heart. 

Lastly,  if  thou  art  wreak,  am  not  I strong?  if 
thou  canst  not  undergo  austerities,  art  thou  unable 
to  love?  if  thou  canst  not  act,  art  thou  unable  to 
suffer?  Now,  it  is  most  of  all  by  loving  and  by 
suffering  that  holiness  is  acquired. 

It  is  not  by  extraordinary  works,  not  by  mira- 
cles; but,  by  love,  a patient  love,  that  the  sanctifi- 
cation of  the  soul  is  chiefly  promoted. 

Endeavor,  for  love  of  Me,  to  suffer  patiently 
whatsoever  I Myself  may  choose,  and  give  thee  to 
endure:  and,  behold!  thou  shalt  become  a Saint. 

If  the  things  which  the  world  calls  great  could 
be  acquired  with  as  much  facility,  what  worldling 
w^ould  not  secure  their  possession? 

3.  A constant  desire  of  making  progress,  a con- 
tinual striving  after  holiness,  is  rightly  thought  to 
constitute  man’s  sanctity  in  this  life. 

None  is  perfect  in  holiness,  who  does  not  exert 
himself  to  become  more  perfect:  and  the  more  one 


348 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


aims  at  greater  perfection,  the  more  holy  does  he 
prove  himself  to  be. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  the  perfection  of  holiness 
is  not  the  work  of  a day  or  a wTeek.  Do  not,  then, 
imagine  that  thou  shalt  be  perfect  in  so  short  a 
time.  For,  by  expecting  this,  and  finding  thyself 
afterward  disappointed,  thou  mightest  lose  heart,  or 
even  be  dangerously  tempted  to  desist  from  further 
attempts. 

Perfection  is  the  joint  work  of  divine  grace  and 
man’s  co-operation. 

Now,  the  goodness  of  My  Heart,  which  wills  that 
thou  shouldst  be  a Saint,  is  much  more  inclined 
bountifully  to  bestow  grace  upon  thee  than  thou 
art  to  ask  for  the  same:  nay,  even  of  Its  own  accord, 
It  pours  grace  upon  thee. 

The  more  faithfully,  therefore,  thou  co-operatest 
with  grace,  the  shorter  the  time  in  which  thou  shalt 
gain  possession  of  sanctity. 

4.  If  thou  hast  a constant  and  effectual  will  of 
sanctifying  thyself,  naught  can  hinder  thee  from 
becoming  a Saint. 

Whatever  may  be  thy  natural  inclination,  thou 
wilt  acquire  holiness,  not  by  the  disposition  of  thy 
character,  but  by  the  co-operation  with  grace  through 
thy  free  will. 

Neither  thy  character,  nor  thy  state  of  life,  nor 
thy  employment,  will  hinder  thee,  if,  with  a gener- 
ous fidelity  of  heart,  thou  co-operatest  with  divine 
grace.  Behold!  great  multitudes,  which  no  one 
can  count,  have,  by  this  fidelity,  sanctified  them- 
selves in  the  religious  state;  and  millions  have  be- 
come Saints,  even  in  the  midst  of  the  world.  By 
this  fidelity,  a Henry  became  a Saint  in  the  camp;  a 


CHAPTER  I. 


349 


Casimir,  at  the  Court;  an  Elzear,  amid  intercourse 
with  the  world;  an  Isidore,  in  the  fields;  an  Agnes, 
in  the  city;  a Mary,  in  the  country;  a Catharine, 
in  her  father’s  house;  a Christiana,  in  bondage. 

Neither  does  holiness  depend  on  being  inscribed 
in  the  Catalogue  of  the  Blessed  or  Saints;  because 
this  does  not  make  the  Saint,  but  simply  declares 
to  men  that  he  was  such.  If  thou  art  a Saint  in 
heaven;  being  perfectly  conformed  to  the  divine 
good  pleasure,  thou  wilt,  of  thyself,  care  little  whether 
or  not  thy  name  is  found  on  earth  registered  in 
the  Canon. 

Neither,  in  fine,  can  temptations  and  difficulties 
present  an  obstacle.  For,  whatsoever  hell  can  con- 
trive, whatsoever  the  world  may  attempt  against 
thee,  all  this,  if  thou  art  willing,  shall  be  made  to 
contribute  to  thy  sanctification. 

5.  It  is  indeed  true  that  he  who  desires  to  ac- 
quire holiness  should  avoid  all,  even  the  slightest, 
sins:  but  involuntary  faults,  which  arise  from  human 
frailty,  are  no  hindrances  to  perfection. 

Even  the  greatest  Saints  were  not  altogether  free 
from  such  miseries:  and,  so  long  as  they  lived  upon 
earth,  they  experienced  the  frailty  of  their  human 
nature. 

Be  not,  then,  troubled  and  uneasy  about  these 
things,  wherein  the  will  does  not  consciously  take 
any  part:  a person  may  be  very  perfect,  although 
he  frequently  offends  involuntarily. 

According  to  the  example  of  the  Saints,  lessen 
involuntary  defects  as  much  as  thou  canst,  and,  with 
quiet  love,  humble  thyself  thyself  before  Me  for  these 
faults:  in  this  manner  thou  wilt  deprive  profit  from 
them  for  thy  progress. 


35° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


6.  This  being  so,  My  Child,  hearken  thou  to 
none  who,  under  some  pretense  or  other,  may  turn 
thee  from  the  pursuit  of  holiness, — neither  to  thy- 
self, nor  to  any  mortal,  nor  any  spirit  whatsoever. 
But,  with  a generous  mind,  that  knows  not  de- 
spondency, continue  to  strive  after  interior  sanctity. 

This  sanctity  is  so  important  a matter,  so  full  of 
honor,  and  so  grateful  to  Me,  that  sometimes  one 
soul,  thus  sanctifying  herself  interiorly,  glorifies 
Me  more, — is  more  pleasing  to  Me,  and  possesses 
more  influence  over  My  Heart, — than  a thousand 
others,  that,  although  good,  rest  satisfied  with  an 
ordinary  virtue. 

Know  thou,  My  Child,  that  holiness,  to  a certain 
degree,  is  really  necessary  to  be  admitted  into  the 
presence  of  the  divine  Majesty;  because,  without 
holiness,  none  shall  see  God. 

If  thou  dost  not  attain  to  this  necessary  holiness 
in  the  present  life,  thou  must  be  purified  with  fire 
unto  holiness  in  the  life  to  come,  before  thou  enterest 
heaven, — into  which  naught,  except  what  is  holy, 
can  gain  admittance. 

Yet,  for  thy  consolation,  remember,  My  Child, 
that,  if  thou  keepest  a good  and  efficacious  will  of 
really  sanctifying  thyself,  thou  shalt  not  taste  death, 
until  thou  hast  acquired  sanctity. 

Meanwhile,  never  think  that  thou  hast  already 
attained  to  holiness,  or  that  thou  art  perfect:  but 
do  thou  ever  advance  and  pursue  the  destined  prize 
of  thy  supernal  vocation. 

Be  of  good  courage,  My  Child,  dare  thou  things 
worthy  of  a Disciple  of  My  Heart:  vie  in  zeal  with 
the  Saints,  thy  noble  brothers  and  sisters.  What  thou 
art,  they  have  been:  what  they  are,  thou  canst  be- 


CHAPTER  I. 


351 


7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — I then,  O Lord 
Jesus,  even  I,  the  least  of  men,  must  and  can  become 
a Saint. 

Yea  I must;  because  Thou  commandest  me  so; 
because  I am  obliged  to  correspond  to  so  many 
singular  favors  and  graces,  which  Thou  hast  be- 
stowed upon  me;  because  I am  bound  to  satisfy,  as 
much  as  I am  able,  the  unutterable  obligations, 
which  I owe  to  Thee,  for  the  mercy  shown  to  me 
after  my  many  sins;  because  I must  have  a care  of 
my  salvation,  and  prepare  myself  for  heaven;  but, 
more  than  all,  because  Thou  art  supremely  worthy 
of  all  love  and  honor. 

And  I can;  because  Thou  givest  me  abundant 
and  efficacious  means;  because  Thou,  ready  to  sup- 
ply all  the  rest,  demandest  naught,  except  that  I 
make  the  attempt  with  a sincere  will;  because  nothing 
can  hinder  me,  unless  I myself  so  will  it;  because 
all  things  whatsoever,  if  I will,  can  help  me  and 
cause  me  to  advance;  because,  finally,  the  whole 
work  of  my  sanctification  is  simply  a labor  of  love, 
of  love  for  Thee,  of  a love  which  renders  all  things 
possible,  easy,  delightful. 

Therefore,  I long  to  be  a Saint,  not  that,  on  earth, 
I may  be  numbered  among  the  Saints,  but  that,  in 
heaven,  I may  glorify  Thee  among  the  Elect:  not 
so  much  through  fear  of  pain  or  hope  of  reward, 
as  through  love  for  Thee,  most  kind  and  sweet 
Jesus, — that  I may  the  more  love  Thee,  the  more 
honor  Thee,  now  and  for  evermore. 

Behold!  O Lord  Jesus,  I have  the  will  to  be- 
come a Saint;  so  long  as  I draw  breath,  I shall  not 
cease  to  will  it:  I beg  and  entreat  Thee,  by  Thy 
most  Sacred  Heart,  help  my  good  will. 


352 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  II. 

THAT  IN  THIS  LITE  NO  ONE  CAN  LIVE  WITHOUT 

SUFFERING. 

1.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — My  Child,  so  long  as 
thou  livest  upon  earth,  thou  canst  not  be  free  from 
troubles. 

What  is  this  whole  mortal  life  except  affliction, 
which  man  enters  weeping,  through  which  he  passes 
amid  sufferings,  from  which  he  departs  groaning? 

Since  man  is  born  subject  to  death,  it  is  not  possible 
that  he  should  pass  his  life  without  pain;  because 
the  source  of  suffering  lies  within  himself. 

The  very  condition  of  being  subject  to  death 
naturally  begets  many  and  various  miseries,  dis- 
eases, and  sufferings;  which  cannot  cease  to  exist 
so  long  as  that  fruitful  and  effective  cause  remains. 

All  these  things,  however,  manifold  and  irksome 
though  they  be,  are  of  less  importance.  For,  from 
the  very  bottom  of  corrupt  nature  worse  things 
spring  up, — inordinate  and  perverse  desires,  which 
force  man  to  feel,  in  spite  of  himself,  that  which  he 
would  fain  not  feel. 

These  are  the  passions,  the  sources  of  so  many 
sufferings,  which,  inherent  in  the  very  heart,  dis- 
turb the  peace  of  many;  which  excite  wars,  horrid 
wars;  which,  by  conflicting  emotions,  expose  the 
soul  to  uncounted  dangers  and  sorrows. 

2.  And  how  numerous  are  the  torments  which 
befall  man  from  without,  and  which  none  can  wholly 
escape! 


CHAPTER  II. 


353 


Cold  and  heat,  the  difference  of  temperature,  the 
thousand  inconveniences  arising  from  creatures,  and 
many  other  effects  of  physical  causes,  which  although 
they  contribute  to  the  general  well-being,  yet, — 
through  man’s  fault,  in  the  state  of  fallen  nature, 
and  in  the  present  order  of  things, — cannot  be 
brought  about  without  some  trouble  to  individuals. 

And,  amid  all  this,  what  mortal  is  not  ofttimes 
burdened  by  labor,  without  which  none  can  dwell 
here  below,  unless  he  be  willing  to  be  burdened 
still  more? 

Add  and  count  up,  if  thou  canst,  the  sorrows  and 
calamities  of  every  kind,  which  arise  from  the  pas- 
sions of  others:  and  thou  shalt  behold  on  all  sides 
troubles,  which,  unless  thou  overcome  them,  will 
overwhelm  thee. 

3.  Indeed,  My  Child,  since  this  mortal  life  is  re- 
plete with  hardships  so  numerous  and  so  great,  to 
not  a few  it  would  appear  almost  unbearable,  if  the 
spirit  of  religion  did  not  suggest  reasons  for  patience, 
and  My  Heart  did  not  render  it  smooth,  by  the 
unction  of  grace. 

Neither  has  all  the  wisdom  of  this  world, — although 
it  has  uttered  many  beautiful  sayings  concerning 
endurance  and  suffering, — ever  been  able  to  invent 
and  afford  a remedy  for  them. 

How  many  there  have  been  who,  whilst  endeav- 
oring to  teach  others,  by  discoursing  eloquently  on 
the  endurance  of  afflictions,  were  themselves  undone 
by  afflictions! 

Hence,  what  wonder  that  those,  who  are  devoid 
of  the  spirit  of  religion  and  strangers  to  My  Heart 
— whether  through  unbelief  or  corruption — should, 
at  last,  despair  amid  their  troubles,  and  their  reason 


354 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


being  blinded,  should  wickedly  terminate  their 
miseries  by  the  greatest  of  all — an  everlasting  mis- 
fortune I 

But  religion  renders  all  troubles  both  bearable 
and  useful;  since  it  teaches  that,  through  the  con- 
soling effect  of  the  wisdom  and  goodness  of  My 
Heart,  that  which  was  a just  punishment  of  sin, 
and  a just  cause  of  grief  to  man,  becomes  a whole- 
some remedy  against  sin,  and  a plentiful  harvest 
of  merits. 

The  furnace  tests  metals.  Fire  hardens  clay, 
but  softens  wax.  The  storm  throws  down  the  plant, 
but  renders  the  tree,  that  is  well-rooted,  more  firm. 

So  also,  My  Child,  does  tribulation  try  men.  Af- 
fliction hardens  the  one,  it  softens  the  other.  Op- 
position casts  down  some,  it  makes  others  more 
solid. 

Affliction  would  lead  all  to  bliss,  if  all  were  to 
receive  it  properly.  If,  on  its  account,  any  one 
hastens  on  to  destruction,  it  is  his  own  fault,  since, 
rightly  borne,  it  would  prove  a sure  road  to  sanc- 
tity, and,  consequently,  to  true  happiness. 

4.  But  behold!  My  Child,  every  affliction  has 
become  much  lighter  and  more  consoling,  since,  by 
My  own  afflictions,  I sanctified  affliction,  and  walk 
before  those  who  suffer  affliction, — as  well  by  the 
example  of  My  life,  as  by  the  promise  of  reward, 
and  the  aid  and  consolation  of  grace. 

By  My  example  the  Saints  learnt  the  secret  of 
suffering  rightly,  and  the  art  of  converting  evi] 
into  good. 

Hence  they  learnt,  by  experience,  that  affliction? 
were  even  sweet  to  them,  and  derived  such  a long- 
ing to  suffer  for  love  of  Me,  that  they  were  unwill- 


CHAPTER  II. 


355 


Ing  to  live  without  suffering,  and  overflowed  with 
joy  in  their  every  tribulation. 

Canst  not  thou  also  aspire  to  the  like,  My  Child? 
Is  not  this  My  interest  as  well  as  thy  own?  What 
fearest  thou?  Behold!  no  afflictions  can  reach 
thy  heart  if  they  have  not  first  passed  through 
Mine:  and,  by  so  doing,  they  lose  all  their  power 
of  hurting,  and  become  imbued  with  the  divine 
virtue  of  consolation. 

5.  Take  heed,  My  Child,  lest  by  the  sourness  of 
thy  heart  thou  imbitter  afflictions,  when  they  come 
from  My  Heart  imbued  with  sweetness. 

Suffering  is  necessary:  there  is  no  choice:  but 
whether  to  suffer  well  or  ill,  whether  after  the 
manner  of  the  Elect  or  after  that  of  the  reprobate, 
whether  for  thy  sanctification  or  for  thy  condemna- 
tion, this  is  optional  with  thee,  this,  My  Child,  de- 
pends upon  thy  choice. 

Prepare  thyself:  nay,  be  ready  for  annoyances, 
which  cease  not  to  occur,  and  shall  never  cease. 

Do  not  believe  that  thou  shalt  ever  have  a day 
without  some  trouble;  since  there  can  never  be  a 
day  without  its  supply  of  malice. 

Neither  do  thou  imagine,  that  with  whatsoever 
efforts  thou  mayst  make,  thou  shalt  be  enabled  to 
escape.  Even  if  thou  withdraw  into  the  wilderness 
alone,  or  cross  the  sea,  or  hide  thyself  in  the  utter- 
most boundaries  of  the  earth,  misery  shall  be  thy 
companion  everywhere,  and  shall  ever  follow  thee 
as  its  cause  or  occasion,  like  a shadow  pursues  the 
body. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  if  thou  art  wise,  endeavor 
to  make  that  useful  which  thou  canst  not  avoid,  by 
bearing  the  cross  of  thy  affliction  with  an  even  and 


350 


THE  THIRD  BOOR. 


well-disposed  mind,  as  did  the  Saints,  and  by  cheer- 
fully following  My  footsteps. 

6.  If  thou  wilt  undergo  tribulation  with  ease 
and  profit,  do  it  for  love  of  Me:  this  love  will  take 
away  the  heaviness  and  bitterness  of  thy  cross,  and, 
by  its  virtue,  will  sanctify  thy  cross,  and  thyself 
through  its  means. 

Whoso  does  not  suffer  his  afflictions  for  love  of 
Me,  will  not  long  carry  his  cross  with  alacrity;  but 
he  will  soon  begin  either  to  drag  it  along,  toiling 
and  groaning,  or,  overburdened  by  it,  he  will  sink 
down  in  his  wretchedness. 

If  thou  findest  any  difficulty  in  so  suffering,  My 
Child,  come  thou  to  My  Heart,  and  pray.  Here 
thou  shalt  obtain  relief,  love,  the  unction  of  grace. 

My  Child,  hitherto  I have  never  ceased  telling 
thee,  nor  will  I cease  to  repeat  it,  do  thou  pray,  do 
not  fail  to  pray. 

For  behold!  in  prayer  is  everything:  by  prayer 
thou  art  freed  from  evils:  by  prayer  thou  obtainest 
all  good  things;  in  prayer  thou  hast  a remedy  for 
misfortune;  by  prayer  sorrow  is  soothed;  in  prayer 
thou  securest  consolation  and  perseverance. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — There  is,  then,  no 
escape,  Lord  Jesus:  it  is  necessary  to  suffer  either 
willingly  or  reluctantly.  If  I suffer  willingly,  I 
shall  feel  it  less:  if  I suffer  with  reluctance,  I add 
a greater  burden. 

Wherefore,  I must  hold  my  heart  ready  to  suffer, 
unless  I desire  to  render  myself  wretched  to  no 
purpose. 

Although  the  necessity  of  suffering  appears  some- 
times hard,  yet  its  advantage,  which  will  sanctify 
me  in  life,  and  render  me  blissful  during  all  eter- 


CHAPTER  III. 


357 


nity,  is  abundantly  sufficient  to  arouse  and  stimu- 
late my  heart. 

But  if  I love  Thee,  O most  sweet  Jesus,  the  sole 
thought  of  Thee  will  induce  me  to  follow  Thee  with 
joy  and  alacrity,  that  I may  be  with  Thee,  that  I 
may  be  assimilated  to  Thee,  that  I may  give  a proof 
of  my  love,  that  I may  enjoy  Thy  love. 

O Jesus,  infinite  sweetness!  near  Thee  even  bit- 
terness becomes  sweet:  for  behold!  by  Thy  own 
suffering,  Thou  didst  take  away  and  reserve  for 
Thyself  whatever  is  bitterest  in  afflictions;  and 
whatsoever  of  relish  or  sweetness  there  is  in  them 
Thou  didst  leave  to  us. 

O Jesus  most  compassionate,  who  didst  love  me 
so  much,  I entreat  Thee,  give  me  the  sentiments  of 
Thy  Heart,  that  I may  sanctify  all  my  sufferings 
and  promote,  by  their  means,  Thy  honor  and  my 
own  perfection. 


CHAPTER  III. 

HOW  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  FELT  DIS- 
POSED IN  REGARD  TO  SUFFERINGS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Consider,  My  Child, 
what  were  the  sentiments  of  My  Heart  in  suffering, 
and  strive  to  imitate  them. 

Behold!  during  My  mortal  life,  My  Heart  was 
ever  suffering  and  rejoicing  at  the  same  time. 

Understand  what  I say,  My  Child.  I speak  not 
of  My  divine  Will,  since  it  was  exempt  from 
suffering,  and  incapable  of  it;  but  of  My  human 


358 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


will.  For  by  this  I practiced  virtues:  by  this  1 
acquired  merits:  by  this  I wTrought  the  Redemp- 
tion of  men. 

From  the  first  existence  of  My  Humanity,  My 
Heart  possessed  the  fullness  of  joy,  by  reason  of 
the  Vision  of  the  Divinity  hypostaticaily  united  to 
It,  which  It  ever  enjoyed,  and  whereby  I was  su- 
premely blissful:  and,  at  the  same  time,  by  a spe- 
cial dispensation,  My  Heart  was  suffering,  in  view 
of  the  cruelty  and  bitterness  of  the  Passion,  which 
It  was  to  undergo. 

Moreover,  at  the  same  time,  but  under  a different 
aspect,  My  Heart  was  grieved  and  rejoiced  at  Its 
sorrowful  and  bitter  Passion.  It  was  grieved,  inas- 
much as  the  sufferings  were  painful  and  disagreea- 
ble to  My  Humanity:  It  was  rejoiced,  inasmuch 
as  God  had  willed  and  ordained  them  for  the  salva- 
tion of  men. 

For  My  Heart  was  endowed  with  a human  will, 
which,  although  one  in  itself,  was,  as  it  were,  two- 
fold in  its  operation:  the  one  inferior, — which  of 
itself  shrunk  and  fled  from  things  distressful  to 
the  human  nature:  the  othe  superior,  which,  for 
loftier  motives,  deliberately  loved  and  embraced 
those  same  painful  things. 

Both  parts,  the  inferior  as  well  as  the  superior, 
were  ever  upright,  never  ill-ordered,  nor  weakened 
by  any  defect  whatsoever. 

The  inferior,  which  regarded  and  desired  the 
good  and  advantage  of  its  own  nature,  and  dreaded 
and  shunned  the  sufferings  of  nature  and  death, 
at  the  same  time,  allowed  itself  to  be  guided  by  the 
superior. 

The  superior  rendered  the  inferior,  as  well  as  it- 


CHAPTER  III. 


359 


self  submissive,  and  conformed  to  the  divine  Will. 
Hence  the  supernatural  acts  of  virtues  performed: 
hence  merits:  hence  the  plentifulness  of  the  treas- 
ures of  grace  accumulated  for  men. 

Remember,  My  Child,  that  thou  possessest  a 
similar  will,  not,  indeed,  equally  perfect  and  unim- 
paired, yet  truly  free:  and  that  in  the  same  thou 
also  findest  an  inferior  and  a superior  part. 

2.  My  Child,  thou  dost  not  always,  nor  at  the 
same  time,  know  all  thou  shalt  have  to  suffer.  It 
happens,  through  a special  kindness  and  mercy 
that,  for  the  most  part,  thou  dost  not  see  them,  ex- 
cept when  they  come  upon  thee,  that  thus  thou 
mayst  bear  them  the  more  easily  one  by  one. 

But  My  suffering  was  ever  in  My  sight.  Wher- 
ever I was,  all  My  future  torments  were  constantly 
before  My  eyes. 

For  at  no  time  was  hidden  from  Me,  all  that  the 
Prophets  had  foretold  I was  to  suffer,  all  that  the 
ancient  types  and  figures  had  foreshowed,  all  that 
the  wickedness  of  the  world  and  of  hell  was  to  at- 
tempt, all  the  horrid  tortures  for  which  the  sins  of 
men  were  crying  out,  all  that  the  insulted  glory  of 
My  heavenly  Father  required,  all  that  thy  own 
wants,  My  Child,  demanded. 

All,  and  each  of  these  things,  were  before  My 
eyes,  and  pressed  unceasingly  upon  My  Heart. 

But  the  love  of  My  Heart  brought  it  to  pass, 
that  I willingly  endured  and  bore  all. 

Love  rendered  everything  savory  to  Me:  labors 
and  watchings,  insults  and  mockeries,  scourgings 
and  thorns,  the  cross,  and  whatsoever  things  were 
prepared  by  the  divine  Will  for  the  blissfulness  of 
men. 


360 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Lo,  My  Child,  the  chief  disposition  of  My  Heart, 
love  for  God  and  for  men.  From  this  source  flowed 
all  Its  other  dispositions. 

3.  Hence  arose  that  inexhaustible  patience  of 
My  Heart,  whereby  I endured,  without  bitter  feel- 
ing or  complaint,  so  many  things,  so  cruel  and  un- 
deserved. For  love  is  patient;  charity  endures 
all  things. 

Hence,  amid  all  My  sorrows  and  afflictions,  the 
resignation  of  Heart  to  the  divine  good  pleasure. 
For,  with  My  Will,  conformed  by  love  to  the  di- 
vine Will,  I was  ready  willingly  to  undergo  every- 
thing. 

Hence  My  joy  amid  suffering.  For  he  that  loves, 
and  understands  the  goodness  of  the  object  be- 
loved, is  glad  when  he  possesses  the  same.  But  My 
Heart  understood  perfectly  the  excellence  of  the 
divine  Will;  therefore,  too,  It  delighted  to  fulfill 
it,  even  amid  many  and  various  sufferings. 

Hence  the  supernatural  longing  of  My  Heart  for 
suffering.  For  true  love  desires  to  testify  effectu- 
ally its  sincerity,  tenderness,  and  fidelity;  therefore 
My  Heart  was  forever  goaded  on  by  love, — always 
desiring  to  consummate  that  Passion  which  was  for 
God,  and  should  remain  for  man,  a manifest  and 
ever-enduring  proof  of  the  sincerity,  the  tenderness, 
the  fidelity,  yea,  of  the  excess  of  My  love. 

4.  But,  My  Child,  the  love  of  My  Heart  went 
even  beyond  this.  For  to  ravish  the  hearts  of  men, 
by  its  excess,  and  to  inflame  them  with  its  own  fire, 
this  is  what  It  willed,  this  is  what  I coveted. 

I had  come  to  cast  a fire  upon  the  earth,  and 
what  did  I will,  except  that  it  should  be  kindled? 

For  this  I had  the  baptism  of  My  Blood,  living 


CHAPTER  III. 


301 


and  boiling  hot,  wherewith  I was  to  be  baptized.  My 
Passion,  I mean,  into  which  I was  to  be  immersed, 
and  plunged  completely. 

And  how  was  I straitened,  until  it  were  accom- 
plished! how  was  My  Heart  burning  to  open  that 
heated  bath,  which  by  its  wonderful  power  should 
cleanse,  warm,  stimulate,  and  enkindle  the  hearts 
of  men! 

This  bath  cleansed  and  inflamed  the  Apostles  and 
Martyrs,  the  holy  Confessors  and  Virgins,  who  were 
ready,  with  a pure  heart,  to  suffer  all  things,  to 
follow  Me  through  afflictions,  mortifications,  a thou- 
sand torments,  a thousand  deaths. 

And  cannot  also  thy  heart  be  enkindled,  My 
Child?  For  this  did  I,  all  along,  love  thee  so  much, 
that  I might  inflame  thee  to  love  Me  in  return,  that 
I might  gain  for  Myself  thy  love. 

5.  My  Child,  if  thou  wouldst  more  frequently 
and  more  attentively  consider  to  what  a degree  I 
have  loved  thee,  and  how  many  more  reasons  thou 
hast  to  love  Me  than  I have  to  love  thee,  thou 
wouldst,  doubtless,  be  excited  to  requite  My  love 
with  thine. 

And,  if  love  do  once  take  possession  of  thy  heart, 
it  will  produce  therein  sentiments,  with  respect  to 
sufferings,  akin  to  the  sentiments  of  My  Heart. 

The  more  thou  lovest  Me,  the  better  wilt  thou 
feel  disposed  toward  sufferings:  and  with  how  much 
the  more  willing  a heart  thou  sufferest,  the  more 
perfectly  wilt  thou  love  Me. 

If  it  happen  that  thou  relishest  not  the  senti- 
ments of  My  Heart,  with  respect  to  afflictions,  it  is 
a sign  that  thy  heart  is  not  healthful,  nay,  that  it 
is  ill-affected:  and,  upon  examination,  thou  shalt 


362  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

find  that  the  cause  thereof  is  that  thy  heart,  de~ 
void  of  divine  warmth,  is  benumbed  by  the  cold- 
ness of  a certain  indifference,  or  is  feverous  with 
the  vitiated  fire  of  self-love. 

However,  from  the  very  fact  that  thou  art  still 
so  ill-disposed,  that  thou  art  unable  to  taste  and 
relish  those  things  which  are  so  worthy  of  great 
souls,  take  thou  occasion  to  bestir  and  stimulate 
thyself  courageously. 

And  desire,  and  covet  at  least,  that  thy  heart 
may  become  animated  with  the  same  sentiments 
that  pervade  Mine. 

6.  Pray  frequently  and  fervently,  even  though 
nature  struggle  against  it,  that  thou  mayst  be  en- 
abled to  understand  the  worth  of  these  sentiments, 
and  love  the  priceless  advantage  of  them. 

If,  in  thus  praying,  thou  art  sincere,  the  eyes  of 
thy  mind  shall  be  opened,  so  as  to  see  clearly  that 
the  wisdom  of  the  world, — which  abhors  the  love 
of  wholesome  humiliations  and  mortifications, — is 
true  folly;  but  that  the  salutary  love,  which  I My- 
self, coming  down  from  heaven,  taught  by  word 
and  example,  is  purest  wisdom. 

And  if  thou  perseverest  in  prayer,  plentiful  grace 
shall  be  bestowed  upon  thee,  religiously  to  embrace 
tribulations,  and  to  endure  them  in  a holy  manner. 

Be  not,  however,  satisfied  with  prayer  alone:  but 
endeavor  also,  according  to  the  amount  of  grace, 
and  of  thy  strength,  to  deny  thyself, — to  endure 
afflictions,  and  to  carry  the  cross  with  Me. 

Blessed  is  he  who  relishes  sufferings  which  may 
sanctify  him!  he  certainly  is  taught  rather  by  di- 
vine unction,  than  by  human  skill;  he  is  animated 
rather  by  grace,  than  by  nature. 


CHAPTER  111. 


363 


There  is  nothing,  My  Child,  whereby  the  true 
Disciples  of  My  Heart  are  better  distinguished,  than 
by  esteem  and  love  of  sufferings  for  My  sake. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O good  Jesus,  how 
great  was  the  charity  of  Thy  Heart  for  me!  how 
unselfish  Thy  love!  how  great  Thy  thirst  for  my 
felicity! 

What  things  Thou  didst  suffer,  and  with  how  pure 
a love!  and  all  for  me,  to  redeem  me,  to  teach  me, 
to  console  me,  to  unite  me  with  Thee  by  love! 

And  can  I ever  forget  Thee?  Can  I ever  love 
Thee  enough?  It  is  little,  I own,  but  meet  and 
just,  that  I love  Thee  with  my  whole  heart,  that  by 
love  I follow  Thee  even  amidst  adversity,  even  unto 
death. 

But,  behold!  my  Saviour  God,  I feel  that  I need 
great  grace,  to  be  able  to  love  sufferings,  and  to 
follow  the  sentiments  of  Thy  Heart  amid  suffer- 
ings. 

Unless  I be  helped  from  above,  I cannot  with 
merit  deny  myself, — neither  in  great  things  nor  in 
small, — embrace  the  cross  with  joy,  overcome  the 
feelings  of  nature,  and  accompany  Thee  throughout, 
even  unto  death. 

But  since  Thou  invitest,  nay  even  callest  me  to 
this:  give  me  abundant  grace,  I beseech  Thee,  that 
thereby  I may  be  enabled  to  effect  what  I cannot 
do  of  myself. 

Widen,  therefore,  my  heart  and  implant,  bounti- 
fully and  deeply,  therein  the  sentiments  of  Thy  suf- 
fering Heart,  that  I,  too,  with  a meek  and  humble 
heart,  may  love  to  suffer  for  love  of  Thee,  whatso- 
ever Thou  mayst  give  me  to  endure. 


3^4 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

WHAT  ADVANTAGES  THERE  ARE  IN  SUFFERING 

WELL. 

i The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  to  thee  it  is 
given  to  understand  the  secrets  of  My  Heart,  to 
enter  devoutly  into  them,  to  direct  them  fully  to 
thy  progress. 

Hear,  then,  the  secrets  which  are  hidden  from 
the  world:  learn  thou  the  good  things  which  world- 
lings understand  not. 

Behold,  walking  in  the  way  of  the  cross,  I the 
Creator  have  gone  before  My  creatures;  I the 
Redeemer  before  those  whom  I had  set  free;  I a 
Father  before  My  children;  and  to  all  men  have  I 
made  it  known,  that,  whosoever  is  willing  to  be  a 
partaker  of  the  unutterable  bliss  which  awaits  Me, 
at  the  end  of  the  journey,  should,  with  the  proper 
interior  disposition  of  heart,  deny  himself,  and  fol- 
low Me. 

But  many  hearing  this,  have  said  at  all  times: 
This  is  a hard  saying,  and  who  can  hear  it?  And, 
thenceforth,  many  withdrew  and  walked  with  Me 
no  more. 

The  Saints,  however,  and  all  they  that  were  really 
willing  to  sanctify  themselves,  received  My  invita- 
tion with  a thankful  heart,  and  judged  that  their 
happiness,  even  upon  earth,  consisted  in  being  with 
Me  in  suffering  with  Me,  and  in  persevering  with 
Me  through  every  trial  unto  the  end. 

2.  And,  indeed,  My  Child,  what  good  is  there  on 


CHAPTER  IV.  365 

earth,  which  may  not  be  found  in  suffering  with 
Me? 

Here  is  true  glory:  a glory  which  is  worthy  of 
the  divine  approval:  a glory  which  does  not  pass 
away  with  this  world:  a glory  which  shall  endure 
and  be  exalted  for  evermore. 

This  is  the  hidden  treasure,  wherewith  is  bought 
the  kingdom  of  heaven,  with  its  entire  unending 
blessedness. 

This  is  the  pure  delight,  exceeding  all  the  feel- 
ings. For  if  thou  arrivest  at  this,  that  thou  rejoic- 
est  in  suffering  with  Me,  thou  obtainest  possession 
of  a spiritual  Paradise  of  delights  upon  earth. 

3.  Whilst  everything  flows  on  according  to  na- 
ture’s inclinations,  and  whilst  no  trouble  oppresses 
the  heart,  a person  is  wont  to  cling  to  creatures,  to 
turn  rarely  toward  Me,  and  to  feel  it  irksome  to 
busy  himself  with  the  things  of  eternity. 

But  when  he  labors  under  adversity,  and  is 
pressed  by  afflictions,  he  turns  again  to  his  heart; 
he  perceives  how  vain,  how  perishable  are  all  the 
things  of  this  world;  be  flies  for  aid  to  Me,  whom 
he  finds,  by  experience,  most  of  all  needed  by  him- 
self. 

Therefore,  My  Child,  the  kind  Providence  of  My 
Heart  is  wont  so  to  act,  that  they  who  are  affluent 
with  the  possessions  of  this  world,  do  not  enjoy 
them  withoct  inconvenience,  in  order  that  thus  they 
may  be  excited  the  more  easily  and  effectively  to 
seek  the  treasures  of  the  life  to  come. 

For,  if  they  possessed  a quiet  and  undisturbed 
felicity  amid  worldly  riches,  they  would,  perhaps^ 
not  even  think  of  laying  up  heavenly  treasures. 

It  is,  then,  a merciful  disputation,  that  evil* 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


366 

abound  in  the  world,  lest  the  world  might  be  ioved, 
and  its  votaries  might  perish. 

4.  As  fire  consumes  rust,  and  purifies  gold,  so 
sufferings  exhaust  and  deaden  the  passions,  and 
render  virtues  more  pure  and  precious. 

By  tribulation  properly  endured,  My  Child,  thou 
redeemest  thy  sins,  and  thou  satisfiest  the  divine 
justice,  for  punishments  still  due:  in  so  much, 
that,  in  this  manner,  thou  canst  have  here  a slight 
and  consoling  Purgatory,  from  which,  through  the 
gates  of  death,  thou  mayst  deserve  to  wing  thy 
flight  to  joys  everlasting. 

What  is  there  that  can  make  thee  merit  more, 
than  sufferings  endured  with  a proper  disposition 
of  heart?  For,  behold!  light  and  momentary 
tribulations  work  out  for  thee  an  ever-enduring 
weight  of  glory. 

Every  affliction  will  add  a new  jewel  to  thy  heav- 
enly crown,  which  shall  glitter  with  as  many  rays 
as  thou  hast  performed  acts  of  virtue. 

In  adversity,  man  is  freed  from  many  false  no- 
tions and  errors,  and  instructed  in  many  ways. 
Happy  he  that,  in  the  school  of  affliction,  is  taught 
to  be  wise  in  all  things! 

What  does  he  know,  who  has  never  experienced 
adversity,  has  never  endured  aught,  either  in- 
wardly or  outwardly?  And  wherein  can  he  be  use- 
ful in  counsel  or  guidance  either  to  himself  or  to 
others  ? 

5.  Wherefore,  Child,  do  not  lose  courage,  when 
thou  art  tried  or  reproved  bv  Me.  For  whom- 
soever I love,  him  do  I lovingly  reprove,  in  order 
to  train  him;  and,  in  him,  as  a father  in  his  son 
am  I well-nl eased. 


CHAPTER  IV. 


3^7. 


Thou  shouldst,  therefore,  justly  be  glad  amid 
sufferings,  since  therein  thou  mayst  have  an  indi- 
cation of  My  esteem  for  thee,  and  a token  of  the 
fatherly  love  of  My  Heart. 

There  is  scarcely  aught  else  to  be  found  which 
produces  a greater  confidence  in  My  Heart,  or  a 
freer  access  to  It,  than  to  suffer  willingly  for  My 
sake. 

When  thou  art  about  to  die,  My  Child,  thou  wilt 
rejoice  over  no  circumstance  of  thy  life  so  securely, 
nor  find  so  safe  a consolation  in  aught  else,  as  in 
the  most  agreeable  remembrance  of  having  suffered 
much  with  Me. 

6.  Very  many  study  to  shun  the  way  of  humili- 
ation and  affliction;  pleading  as  an  excuse,  that 
they  can  both  better  glorify  God  and  help  their 
neighbor,  in  a more  agreeable  wTay. 

What  a delusion!  They  do  not  seek  God  nor 
their  neighbor,  but  themselves.  For  the  glory  of 
God  and  the  salvation  of  the  neighbor  are  not  to  be 
promoted  according  to  man’s,  but  according  to  God’s 
good  pleasure. 

Now,  God  indicated  to  His  Son  the  manner  of 
glorifying  on  earth  His  Majesty,  and  of  saving  the 
lost  world.  And  this  manner  the  Son  followed  by 
suffering  and  by  suffering  He  made  it  known  to 
man. 

My  Child,  do  thou  follow  this  path  which  I My- 
self have  trodden  and  showed  to  ihee.  And  that 
thou  mayst  be  able  to  keep  it,  pray  thou  frequently 
and  fervently. 

But  whilst  praying,  ponder  thou  devoutly  all  My 
sorrows  of  every  kind,  and  the  supernatural  dispo- 
sitions of  My  Heart  all  the  while. 


368 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Do  not  consult  merely  natural  inclinations  or 
purely  human  feelings;  but,  by  means  of  super- 
natural principles,  elevate  thyself  above  sensible 
things,  and  view  tribulations  as  sent  by  the  divine 
Will,  and,  inasmuch  as  thou  art  able,  embrace  them 
affectionately. 

Courage,  then,  My  Child;  cheer  on  thy  heart. 
Behold  Me,  and  all  the  Saints  with  Me,  cheerfully 
treading  the  path  of  sufferings.  Be  thou  bold  to 
follow.  With  Me  nothing  is  to  be  feared;  the 
company  is  select;  the  way  safe;  the  goal  certain; 
the  reward  everlasting. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord  Jesus! 
who  will  not  be  roused  up  to  follow  Thee?  Who 
does  not  feel  his  heart  burning  within  him,  whilst 
Thou  utterest  these  things  about  the  way? 

But  it  is  one  thing  to  be  enkindled  by  Thee,  and 
another  to  follow  Thee;  it  is  one  thing  to  meditate 
and  quite  a different  one  to  act:  yea,  it  is  one  thing 
to  know  virtue,  and  another  to  practice  the  same. 

I acknowledge  that  the  love  of  sufferings  is  a most 
excellent  virtue;  I admire  it  in  my  mind,  I do  even 
love  it  in  my  heart ; but,  when  an  occasion  of  actually 
practicing  it  presents  itself,  behold!  self-love  begins 
forthwith  to  torment  me,  secret  pride  darkens  my 
cinder  standing  and  forces  upon  me  a thousand  ex- 
cuses, a thousand  specious  pretenses. 

Whilst  thus  I am  miserably  struggling  with 
myself,  the  chance  of  suffering  something  for  Thy 
sake  flies  away,  and,  I must  confess  it  to  my  shame, 
I frequently  wish  myself  joy  if  I escape  unharmed 
from  the  struggle. 

O most  kind  Jesus!  look  Thou  graciously,  I be- 
seech Thee,  upon  this  my  misery;  and  grant  me  in 


CHAPTER  V.  369 

Thy  mercy  to  be  able,  by  Thy  grace,  to  do  that 
which,  by  my  frailty,  I cannot  effect. 

Great  is  my  weakness,  great  the  power  of  my 
refractory  nature,  which  shrinks  from  the  very 
thought  of  pain  or  humiliation. 

But  the  reason  why  I am  so  weak  and  sluggish, — 
so  that  I dare  not  go  contrary  to  nature, — is  that 
I do  not  love  Thee  sufficiently. 

O most  sweet  Jesus!  were  I to  love  Thee,  like 
Thy  Saints,  how  easy,  how  pleasant  even,  would  it 
be  to  triumph  over  the  repugnance  of  nature! 

Grant  me,  therefore,  I pray  Thee,  this  singular 
grace,  that  I may  love  Thee  with  a more  perfect 
love, — with  a love  courageous  and  generous;  that 
it  may  strongly  attract  me, — despite  the  opposition 
of  nature, — through  all  hardships,  to  Thee,  O Jesus, 
my  life,  my  delight,  my  beatitude. 


CHAPTER  V. 

HOW,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 
HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  MUST  CONFORM  OURSELVES 
AMIDST  AFFLICTIONS  TO  THE  DIVINE  WILL. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  I had  now  en- 
lightened the  world  by  My  doctrine,  enkindled  it 
with  My  love,  and  rendered  it  blissful,  to  a certain 
extent,  by  the  perpetual  gift  of  My  Whole  Self: 
nothing  remained,  except  to  complete  all  by  under- 
going the  utmost  sufferings  through  an  excess  of 
that  same  love. 


370  THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

Having,  therefore,  left  the  Supper-room,  I went 
whither  the  Will  of  My  Father  called  Me,  whither 
also  the  desire  of  My  Heart  directed  Me:  to  the 
mountain  of  the  Olives. 

Ponder  well,  My  Child,  what  were  the  sentiments 
of  My  Heart,  whilst  I proceeded  in  the  silence  of 
the  night,  and  beheld  distinctly  rushing  upon  Me 
all  and  each  one  of  the  torments  of  My  Passion. 

Sorrowful  journey  1 journey  filled  with  unutter- 
able distress  and  anguish  of  Fleart!  Yet,  I went 
on  courageously,  because  I was  following  the  divine 
good  pleasure. 

As  throughout  My  life,  so  now,  whilst  sorrows 
were  falling  upon  Me  from  every  side,  My  Heart 
united  with  the  divine  Will,  generously  and  lov- 
ingly embraced  adversity,  as  the  gift  of  My  Father’s 
Will. 

2.  Thus  also  thou,  My  Child,  when  thou  art  suf- 
fering, do  not  regard  the  afflictions  in  themselves; 
but  lift  up  thy  eyes  and  consider  the  divine  Will, 
that  sends  them  to  thee  for  thy  good,  although  thy- 
self dost  not  see  that  they  are  for  thy  advantage. 

Indeed,  Child,  except  sin,  nothing  takes  place 
without  the  divine  Will.  But  whatsoever  happens, 
sin  excepted,  is  good,  not  evil,  since  it  proceeds 
from  a Will  essentially  just,  and  is  a divinely  ap- 
pointed means  of  sanctifying  man. 

For  the  divine  Will,  which  is  guided  by  infinite 
Wisdom,  sustained  by  infinite  Power,  moved  by  in- 
finite Goodness,  is  indeed  able  to  effect  whatsoever 
it  wills,  but  it  can  will  nothing  absolutely  for  mor- 
tals except  what  is  good  for  them. 

And  since  creatures,  whatever  they  may  wickedly 
attempt,  cannot  impede  the  divine  Will  concerning 


CHAPTER  V, 


S / - 

thee;  so  often  as  anything,  which  is  not  sinful  in 
any  manner,  befalls  thee,  it  is  manifest  that  it  hap- 
pens by  the  divine  Will,  and  is  for  thy  good. 

Sin,  however,  as  He  is  infinitely  good,  God  can- 
not will:  but,  in  His  infinite  Providence,  He  may 
and  does  permit  it, — both  that  He  may  not  take 
away  man’s  free-will,  and  that,  by  a way  which  will 
be  understood  and  admired  in  the  other  world,  He 
may  extol  His  own  perfections. 

Infinitely  perfect  as  He  is,  He  knows  how  to 
draw  good  out  of  evil:  and  He  judged  it  better  to 
draw  good  out  of  evil,  than  not  to  permit  that  evil 
should  be  possible. 

3.  My  Child,  some  things  happen,  which  a per- 
son cannot  avoid,  and  must  endure,  whether  he 
likes  it  or  not. 

Happy  he  that,  under  these  occurrences,  resigns 
himself  to  the  divine  Will,  and  strives  to  conform 
himself  thereto,  so  that,  uniting  his  own  with  the 
divine  Will,  he  suffers  no  longer  through  necessity, 
but  of  his  own  accord?  By  this  voluntary  resigna- 
tion, tribulations  become  not  only  meritorious,  but 
also  lighter. 

Would  that  thou  didst  well  understand  this,  My 
Child,  so  that,  when  afflictions  of  this  kind  present 
themselves,  thou  do  not,  through  a blameworthy 
opposition,  lose  all  merit,  and  add  misery  to  misery  1 
For  what  can  be  more  miserable  in  this  life,  than 
never  to  will  what  shall  always  be,  and  ever  not  to 
will  what  shall  ever  be? 

Other  things  happen,  which  one  cannot  escape 
without  sin;  so  that  he  must  either  endure  them 
or  incur  guilt. 

O how  unwisely,  how  unbecomingly  do  they  act, 


372 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


who,  to  be  free  from  troubles,  do  not  hesitate  to 
have  recourse  to  unlawful  means!  Is  it  proper  so 
to  use  the  portion  of  My  chalice,  which  is  truly  a 
divine  gift,  and  which  is  never  sent,  before  it  has 
been  tasted  and  seasoned  by  My  Heart? 

Lastly,  other  things  again  occur,  which  man  may 
turn  aside  without  guilt.  Yet,  when  no  virtue  for- 
bids, it  is  according  to  the  divine  good  pleasure  to 
embrace  the  same  cordially. 

My  Child,  if  thou  art  a true  Disciple  of  My 
Heart,  thou  wilt  allow  no  occasion  of  this  kind  to 
pass  by:  but,  holding  thy  heart  ever  in  readiness, 
when  an  opportunity  presents  itself  of  humbling 
and  mortifying  thyself  without  danger,  thou  wilt 
accept  it  as  a gift  from  Me,  and  embrace  it  with  the 
greater  affection;  because,  as  nature  has  no  share 
therein,  and  thy  heart  is  moved  solely  by  My  good 
pleasure,  thou  art  able  to  display  a pure  love  for 
Me. 

Fervent  Disciples  of  My  Heart, — not  satisfied 
with  things  which  present  themselves, — often,  of 
their  own  accord,  seek  for  opportunities  of  suffer- 
ing something  for  Me,  and  of  comforming  them- 
selves to  Me;  for  they  know  that  I delight  espe- 
cially in  this  likeness  to  Me,  as  in  a perfect  evidence 
of  their  love. 

4.  There  are  they,  who,  with  their  mind  and 
heart,  ever  five  in  the  past,  or  in  the  future:  who 
are  wholly  taken  up  with  thinking  over  the  causes 
or  circumstances  of  wrongs,  which  formerly  have 
been  done  to  them,  or  hail  afar  off  future  adversity, 
whilst  they  studiously  avoid  the  present. 

How  greatly  are  those  persons  to  be  pitied!  for  they 
are  tormented  by  the  past,  and  deluded  by  the  future. 


CHAPTER  V. 


373 


In  imagination  they  endure  much,  attempt 
much:  but  in  reality,  they  are  wonderful  self-tor- 
mentors, and  vain  dreamers. 

How  many  of  them  resolve  to  endure  one  day 
hard  things,  and  meanwhile  do  not  even  bear  what 
is  easy! 

Beware,  Child,  of  an  imaginary  perfection,  which 
covers  self-love,  and  is  altogether  an  illusion. 

Take  advantage  of  the  present,  seize  every  op- 
portunity, how  little  soever,  of  practicing  virtue: 
great  occasions  rarely,  ordinary  ones  frequently 
occur;  and  a small  matter,  rightly  endured,  is  a 
preparation  for  what  is  great. 

5.  My  Child,  if,  in  every  occurrence,  thou  be- 
holdest  My  divine  Will,  thou  wilt  heed  little, 
through  whom  it  is  that  things  adverse  come  upon 
thee, — whether  through  a Superior,  an  equal,  or  an 
inferior;  whether  through  one  who  is  good,  or  one 
who  is  wicked: — but  thou  wilt  receive  them  with- 
out distinction,  regarding  the  divine  Will  alone, 
which  makes  use  of  various  instruments  for  its  own 
most  holy  ends. 

To  help  thy  weakness:  first,  in  suffering  adver- 
sity, resign  thyself,  even  unto  patience:  and,  al- 
though thou  neither  lovest  sufferings,  nor  art 
pleased  with  them,  endure  what  is  to  be  borne, 
without  bitterness  of  heart,  without  uttering  com- 
plaints. 

Employ  all  the  means  in  thy  power,  and  perse- 
vere therein,  until  thou  hast  become  accustomed  to 
be  patient,  and  to  be  resigned  to  the  divine  Will, 
amidst  troubles  of  ordinary  occurrence. 

Having  attained  to  the  first  degree,  conform  thy- 
self to  Mv  Will  in  every  affliction:  willing  the 


374 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


same  because  I will  it:  unwilling  to  be  freed  there- 
from, so  long  as  I do  not  will  that  thou  shouldst 
be  free. 

To  arrive  at  this,  thou  oughtest  to  pray  much, 
that  thy  intellect  may  be  enlightened  from  above, 
and  that,  by  the  aid  of  grace,  thy  will, — for  super- 
natural motives, — may  be  solidly  conformed  to 
Mine,  so  that  thou  feelest  persuaded,  both  by  faith 
and  love,  that  there  is  naught  better  than  the  di- 
vine Will. 

After  reaching  the  second  degree,  aim  thou  at 
the  highest.  Strive,  with  all  thy  strength,  so  to 
unite  thyself  with  the  divine  Will,  as  not  only  to 
be  conformed  thereto  in  suffering  adversity,  but  to 
be  the  self-same  with  it. 

Then,  My  Child,  shall  this  union  of  wills  exist 
between  us,  when  thy  heart, — animated  with  the 
same  sentiments  toward  the  cross  that  possess 
Mine, — rejoices,  like  Mine,  in  uniformity  with  the 
divine  good  pleasure. 

This  union  of  wills  is  an  important  matter,  is  true 
perfection,  solid  sanctity.  Pure  love  alone  begets 
this  holy  union,  which  cannot  exist  without  elevat- 
ing and  ennobling  man,  and  rendering  him  bliss- 
ful. 

6.  My  Child,  if  thou  lovest  Me,  thou  wilt  also 
love  My  Will.  It  is  enough  for  him  that  loves,  to 
know  the  desire  of  the  one  beloved,  in  order  to  ex- 
ecute it  with  a joyful  heart. 

Come,  then,  dearly  beloved,  embrace  with  thy 
heart’s  whole  affection  the  divine  good  pleasure; 
and  prove,  in  this  manner,  that  thou  art  a true 
Disciple  of  My  Heart, — a lover,  not  of  thyself,  but 
of  Me. 


CHAPTER  V. 


375 


So  act,  so  live,  that  I may  find  in  thee  a man  ac- 
cording to  My  Heart, — one  who  accomplishes  all 
My  wishes,  as  well  in  adversity  as  in  prosperity. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Most  bountiful  and 
sweet  Jesus,  whose  only  rule  of  life  was  the  divine 
Will,  behold  1 by  Thy  grace,  I resolve  to  strive 
ever  to  follow  this  most  safe  and  most  just  rule. 

How  much  soever  nature  may  resist,  I am  will- 
ing to  suffer  everything  Thou  mayst  permit  to  be- 
fall me,  through  the  means  of  any  creatures  what- 
soever, whether  seen  or  unseen.  Nothing  except 
what  is  good  can  proceed  from  a Heart  infinitely 
bountiful,  which  loves  me  more  and  better  than  I 
either  do  or  can  love  myself. 

And  I know,  O Lord,  that  I shall  have  to  un- 
dergo nothing  which  has  not  first  passed  through 
Thy  Heart,  and  has  thus  become  sweet. 

If  my  vicious  inclination  rebel,  and  attempt  to 
draw  Thy  Will  toward  itself,  display,  I beseech 
Thee,  Thy  Power:  subdue  the  insolent  foe,  that  he 
may  not  rise  up  again. 

O most  loving  Jesus!  O Thou  fire  that  consum- 
est  what  is  defective,  and  injurest  not  what  is  good: 
O Thou  flame  gently  burning,  and  happily  destroy- 
ing! destroy  within  me  every  evil  and  inordinate 
will:  enkindle  and  nourish  in  me  a good  and  well- 
ordered  will,  that  may  deem  itself  blissful,  when  in 
all  things,  even  though  adverse  they  be,  it  follows 
Thy  divine  good  pleasure. 


3 76 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  TEACHES 

US  IN  AFFLICTION  TO  HAVE  RECOURSE  TO 

PRAYER. 

t.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  when  I had 
now  entered  the  garden  of  the  Olives,  whilst  the 
earth  was  silent  all  around,  behold!  there  rushed 
and  pressed  upon  Me,  on  the  one  hand,  all  the  sins 
of  the  world;  on  the  other,  the  frightful  tortures  of 
My  Passion:  and  with  such  violence  did  they  crowd 
upon  My  Heart,  that,  although  It  is  the  strength 
of  them  that  are  weak,  It  began  to  fear,  to  grow 
weary,  sad,  disconsolate. 

But  wrhen  I beheld  distinctly,  that, — by  the  great 
sufferings  taken  upon  Me  with  so  much  love,  and 
offered  up  with  so  great  a mercy  for  the  salvation 
of  all  men, — not  a few  would  refuse  to  be  saved, 
and  would,  by  a willful  hard-heartedness,  misuse 
them  for  their  deeper  destruction,  and  return  Me  at 
last  nothing,  except  the  blackest  ingratitude:  then, 
My  Child,  My  Heart,  growing  faint  with  anguish, 
forced  Me  to  exclaim:  My  soul  is  sorrowful  even 
unto  death! 

However,  having  withdrawn  from  My  Disciples 
and  advanced  a little,  kneeling  down,  I prayed. 

Meanwhile, — by  the  struggle  between  the  supe- 
rior and  inferior  part  of  My  Heart, — My  sorrows 
increasing  to  such  a degree  that  My  sweat  became 
as  drops  of  blood  trickling  down  upon  the  ground, 
I fell  upon  My  face,  and,  being  in  an  agony,  I 
prayed  the  longer. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


377 


And  as  My  agony,  on  account  of  that  inward 
struggle,  continued,  I persevered  in  prayer:  Father, 
if  Thou  wilt,  remove  this  chalice  from  Me;  yet, 
not  My  Will  but  Thine  be  done.  Yea,  My  Father, 
Thy  Will  be  done! 

Then,  Child,  sent  from  heaven,  an  Angel  ap- 
peared,— not  to  take  away  the  chalice  of  My  Pas- 
sion, which  My  Father  willed  Me  wholly  to  drain 
— but  to  strengthen  Me;  that,  when  joy  was  set 
before  Me  without  My  Passion,  despising  the  shame, 
I might  voluntarily  endure  the  cross. 

Reflect,  My  Child,  how  painful  a struggle  My 
Heart  underwent  that  night:  a struggle,  the  like 
whereof  is  not  found:  a struggle,  on  the  result  of 
which  hung  the  salvation  of  the  world. 

My  Heart  fought,  laboring,  wrestling,  resisting 
even  unto  blood,  and  overcame:  but  It  conquered 
in  prayer. 

2.  Behold,  My  Child,  behold  a source  of  varied 
consolation  for  thee : My  Heart  struggling  with 
death  and  praying:  fighting  by  love,  triumphing 
by  love. 

For  lo ! to  what  extent  I felt  the  hardship  of  My 
sufferings,  to  what  an  extent  I tasted  their  bitter- 
ness. And  all  this,  Child,  to  teach,  to  relieve,  to 
encourage  thee. 

Be  not  then  cast  down,  nor  wonder,  when  thou 
feelest  a repugnance  to  suffering.  For,  if  My  Heart, 
although  holy  and  perfect,  felt  Its  pains  to  such  a 
degree,  what  wonder  if  thv  heart  feels  them  like- 
wise ? 

But  never  shalt  thou  experience, — never  shalt 
thou  feel  so  much  as  My  Heart  felt.  Wert  thou  to 
endure  at  once  in  thy  heart  whatever  thou  shalt 


378 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


have  to  suffer  during  thy  whole  life,  it  would  be  no 
more  than  a little  drop  of  the  chalice  which  My 
Heart  drained  in  the  garden. 

Whatever  may  be  the  reluctance  which  thou  ex- 
periencest  in  thyself,  follow  My  example;  yield  not 
to  nature  opposing,  but  go  counter  thereto. 

To  this  end,  in  every  difficulty,  in  every  anguish, 
hasten  thou  without  delay  to  prayer. 

3.  If,  when  thou  art  troubled,  thou  hast  recourse 
to  prayer,  distiess  will  ever  prove  gainful  to  thee. 
By  prayer  thou  shalt  either  be  delivered  from  it 
with  merit,  or  thou  shalt  be  helped  to  endure  it, 
for  thy  good. 

Come,  then,  Child,  and  with  knees  bent,  or  with 
thy  heart  at  least  humbly  prostrate,  pray  thou  like 
Myself:  pray  that,  if  it  be  the  divine  Will,  the  cup 
of  thy  affliction  may  pass  away;  vet  not  so  that 
thine,  but  the  divine  Will  be  done. 

Pray  if  this  chalice  may  not  pass  away,  that  thou 
obtain  grace,  to  be  resigned,  to  submit  thyself  to 
drink  it. 

Be  of  good  cheer,  My  Child;  under  no  circum- 
stances shalt  thou  ever  have  afflictions  which  will 
require  thee  to  struggle  so  much,  in  order  to  be  re- 
signed, as  I had  to  contend.  Thou  shalt  never 
have  a contest  which  will  cause  thee  a bloody 
sweat. 

Whatsoever  difficulty  thou  mavst  have,  exert 
thyself,  wrestle,  fight  with  thyself,  to  overcome  thy 
feeling.  Struggling  again  and  again,  pray,  and 
pray  the  longer,  until  thou  hast  rendered  thy  heart 
conformed  to  the  divine  Will,  and  prepared  it,  in 
spite  of  nature,  to  follow  Me  through  every  hard- 
ship which  may  be  sent  it  from  above. 


CHAPTER  VI. 


379 


4.  It  is  a great  misfortune  for  thee,  Child,  that 
thou  art  wont  to  have  recourse  to  prayer  rather 
slowly,  and  first  to  try  human  skill;  that  thou  suf- 
ferest  the  unwearied  enemy  of  thy  salvation,  and 
the  ill-regulated  propensity  of  nature,  to  obtain  too 
great  a sway  over  thy  heart. 

Hearken  not  to  the  suggestions  of  the  devil,  nor 
of  any  passion  whatsoever.  For,  by  false  reason- 
ings, they  seek  to  deceive,  to  injure  thee.  Forbid- 
ding thyself  all  reasoning,  all  intercourse  with 
them,  come  thou  forthwith  to  My  Heart:  here  is 
thy  counsel,  here  thy  help,  here  thy  comfort. 

Even  had  an  Angel  visibly  to  be  sent  down  from 
heaven,  thou  shouldst  not  be  left  without  consoling 
aid,  if  thou  prayest,  as  it  behooves  thee. 

And  if,  despite  thy  pious  efforts,  thou  continuest 
to  feel  an  opposition  within  thyself,  be  not  on  that 
account  dejected.  Provided  thy  will  be  resigned 
to  the  divine  Will,  this  repugnance  felt,  indeed,  but 
not  willed,  so  far  from  doing  thee  harm,  shall,  on 
the  contrary,  if  thou  strugglest  against  it,  be  of  the 
greatest  advantage  to  thee. 

It  is  the  characteristic  of  an  heroic  Disciple  of  My 
Heart,  to  pray  and  endeavor  with  all  his  strength 
to  overcome  himself  completely, — as  well  in  those 
things  from  which  nature  shrinks,  as  in  those  to 
which  it  is  prone. 

5.  When  thou  prayest  in  affliction,  Child,  thou 
oughtest  so  to  pray,  that  thou  art  willing  to  be  re- 
signed,— whether  thou  obtainest  relief,  or,  in  its 
stead,  receivest  something  else,  which  is  better  for 
thee,  because  more  conformable  to  the  divine  Will; 
or  whether  thou  tastest  sweetness,  or  experiencest 
bitterness. 


38° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


For  that  prayer  is  not  the  best,  in  which  the 
greatest  consolations  are  felt!  Since  what  is  sweet 
is  not  always  useful,  nor  is  that  which  is  bitter  al- 
ways hurtful.  Nay  more,  in  man’s  present  state 
sweetness  is  wont  to  do  harm,  bitterness  to  be  ad- 
vantageous. 

That  is  the  best  prayer,  from  which  thou  goest 
with  greater  humility  and  greater  charity,  and  feel- 
est  so  disposed,  that,  in  order  to  do  the  good  plea- 
sure of  God,  thou  art  willing  to  go  efficaciously 
against  whatsoever  is  pleasing  to  nature,  and  to  em- 
brace whatsoever  is  displeasing  thereto. 

How  pitiful  a sight  before  God,  and  Angels  and 
men,  to  see  persons,  who  daily  pray  long  and  much, 
go  thence  and  carry  naught  away  with  them,  ex- 
cept faults  of  negligence  and  abuse  of  grace,  or  a 
more  delicate  pride  and  self-love, — having  in  no 
wise  become  better  inclined  toward  their  duties,  nor 
abler  to  bear  the  defects  of  their  neighbor,  and  still 
unwilling  to  curb  their  own  inclinations. 

Thou,  My  Son,  do  thou  pray  better,  as  taught  by 
My  example.  Pray,  and  overcome  nature:  pray, 
and  resign  and  conform  thyself  to  the  divine  good 
pleasure. 

These  arduous  efforts  shall  not  long  be  needed.  Yet 
a little  while,  and  thou  shalt  not  now  prepare  thy- 
self for  tribulations,  nor  encourage  thyself  in  them: 
but  thou  shalt  sing  glad  and  glorious  triumphs  with 
the  Saints,  who  all  have  come  out  of  great  tribula- 
tion, and  who  now,  in  their  reward,  are  enraptured 
by  the  unbroken  excess  of  rejoicings,  and  exult  for 
evermore. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Thanks  to  Thee, 
most  compassionate  Jesus,  true  comforter  of  them 


CHAPTER  VI. 


3^1 

that  are  in  pain:  thanks  to  Thee;  for  tnat  Thou 
consolest  me  so  disinterestedly  and  so  gently,  amid 
all  the  repugnance  I am  wont  to  feel  in  regard 
to  sufferings;  and  for  that,  at  so  great  a cost  to 
Thyself,  Thou  didst  open  for  me  a source  of  reme- 
dies in  every  affliction. 

By  what  Thou  didst  so  mercifully  deign  to  un- 
dergo, I see,  with  the  greatest  consolation,  that 
natural  reluctance  can  not  hurt  a good  will — which 
alone  Thou  regardest,  and  to  which  alone  Thou 
grantest  peace  upon  earth. 

O Lord,  O Thou  the  consolation  of  men,  and 
the  joy  of  Angels!  who,  when  afflicted,  didst  be- 
take Thyself  to  prayer:  grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that, 
after  Thy  example,  in  every  tribulation,  I may 
forthwith  have  recourse  to  the  remedy  of  prayer; 
thus  to  sacrifice  the  opposition  of  nature,  and  to 
cause  myself  to  be  resigned  and  conformed  to  the 
divine  Will. 

Thy  Heart,  most  benign  Jesus,  is  the  open  and 
safe  refuge  of  all  them  that  are  miserable:  behold, 
I entreat  Thee,  my  weakness;  arouse  me,  impel 
me,  that  in  every  difficulty,  under  every  circum- 
stance, I may  flee  to  the  same — may  there  find 
bliss,  and  derive  thence  strength  and  courage. 

O sweet  Jesus,  my  love  and  my  every  good!  I 
beg  and  implore  Thee,  bestow  upon  me  the  grace 
always  and  everywhere  to  repose  with  Thee,  in 
the  divine  Will,  and  to  continue  thus  with  Thee 
forever. 


382 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

HOW  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  TEACHES 

US,  AMID  TRIBULATION,  TO  USE  THE  AID  OF 

CREATURES. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus.— My  Child,  when  I rose 
from  prayer,  following  the  good  pleasure  of  My 
heavenly  Father,  I came  to  My  Disciples,  to  teach 
thee  by  My  example,  as  well  as  to  obtain  through 
them  some  comfort  in  My  extreme  affliction. 

But  alas!  I found  them  heavy  with  sadness,  and 
buried  in  sleep,  so  that,  when  awakened,  far  from 
offering  Me  any  relief,  they  knew  not  what  to  say; 
and  instead  of  giving  Me  comfort,  they  themselves 
needed  solace. 

It  was  the  bitterest  bitterness  to  My  Heart,  Child, 
to  see  those  very  ones — whom  I had  trained  with 
more  than  a father’s  care,  whom  I had  cherished 
with  so  great  a love,  whom  I had  solaced  so  often, — 
now,  during  My  Passion,  so  indifferent,  so  heedless, 
that  they  could  not  even  for  one  hour  watch  with 
Me. 

Where  are  now  those  promises,  lately  made,  that 
they  would  be  faithful  to  Me,  even  unto  death? 
where  is  now  their  pledged  word?  where  that  con- 
stancy so  solemnly  avowed  ? All  this  has  van- 
ished; but  it  passed  through  My  Heart;  and  oh! 
how  deep  a wound  did  it  inflict! 

However,  since,  whilst  I was  suffering,  I did  not 
go  to  My  Disciples,  except  by  the  Will  of  My 
Father,  according  to  the  same  good  pleasure  of  My 


CHAPTER  VII.  383 

Father,  I embraced,  with  My  Heart  resigned,  the 
pains  which  followed  My  recourse  to  them. 

2.  It  is  not  then  forbidden,  My  Child,  amid  dis- 
tresses, to  resort  for  comfort  to  creatures,  provided 
it  be  done  in  a befitting  manner. 

Now,  thou  wilt  do  it  in  this  manner,  if  thou  appli- 
est  to  creatures  solely  as  a means  of  conforming  and 
uniting  thyself  more  easily  and  more  perfectly  to 
the  divine  Will. 

It  is  peculiar  to  the  more  perfect  Disciples  of  My 
Heart,  to  suffer,  and  to  conceal,  so  far  as  allowed, 
their  suffering  from  man;  and  to  lay  open  and  com- 
municate to  Me  alone  the  afflictions  of  their  hearts. 

But  thou,  Child,  if  thou  art  not  yet  able  to  reach 
so  great  a height  of  perfection,  go  thou,  after  having 
first  prayed,  go  thou  to  some  pious  and  interior 
person,  not  indeed  to  receive  sensible  comfort  from 
him,  but  to  be  relieved  and  assisted,  so  as  the  bet- 
ter to  come  to  My  Heart,  the  fountain  of  true  con- 
solation, and  to  cling  to  Me  rather  than  to  any  other 
solace  whatever. 

Indeed,  if  thou  art  truly  wise,  to  cleave  to  Me 
ought  ever  to  be  thy  greatest  comfort.  For,  united 
to  Me,  even  shouldst  thou  be  deprived  of  all  other 
solace,  thou  shalt  calmly  repose  upon  My  Heart. 
And  what  can  there  be  more  sweet?  what  more 
secure  ? 

3.  So  often  as  in  thy  troubles  thou  needest  coun- 
sel or  guidance,  or  art  exposed  to  the  danger  of 
delusion,  do  not  trust  in  thyself  alone,  lest  thou  err 
in  thy  own  sense,  and  be  deceived  by  the  appearance 
of  good. 

For  it  is  chiefly  in  these  matters  that  I am  wont  to 
lead  man  by  man;  both  that  the  order  of  My  divine 


38  4 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Providence  may  shine  forth  the  more  clearly,  and 
that  men  may  love  each  other  the  more  dearly — 
when  they  find,  by  experience,  that  they  are  not 
sufficient  for  themselves,  but  that  each  needs  the 
assistance  of  the  other. 

And  they  who,  under  such  circumstances,  deem 
themselves  too  wise  to  need  the  direction  of  others, 
are  wont  to  have  a termination  full  of  dangers. 

Sometimes,  also,  to  have  recourse  to  created 
means  is  not  only  a counsel  of  security,  but  a pre- 
cept of  obligation. 

It  has  been  most  wisely  and  properly  established 
and  ordained,  that  man  should  be  helped  by  the 
other  creatures,  which  were  made  for  his  real  good; 
that  at  one  time,  by  abstaining  from  them,  he  may 
practice  virtue;  at  another,  that  he  may  be  exer- 
cised by  them  for  his  salvation  and  perfection;  and 
again,  that  he  may  use  them  as  means. 

Marvelous  is  My  Providence  in  all  My  wTorks. 
All  things  serve  Me:  if  thou  lovest  Me,  Child,  they 
shall  also  serve  thee. 

4.  Now,  when  it  behooves  thee  to  use  creatures 
as  a means,  this  use  should  be  carefully  attended 
to,  and  the  result  should  so  be  looked  for,  that,  in 
whatsoever  way  the  matter  may  turn  out,  thou  art 
resigned  to  the  divine  Will. 

For,  after  having  employed  a sufficient  diligence, 
the  result,  whatever  it  be,  will  be  to  thee  a sign  of 
the  divine  good  pleasure. 

Sometimes  I inspire  designs,  to  the  execution 
whereof  I will  that  men  should  apply  themselves 
with  courage  and  perseverance;  although  I do 
not  will  their  success.  In  which  event  they  ob- 
tain a two-fold  advantage;  on  the  one  hand,  the 


CHAPTER  VII. 


385 


merit  of  the  labor  for  a successful  execution;  on 
the  other,  the  merit  of  resignation  at  the  unfavor- 
able result. 

If  any  of  thy  affairs  have  an  unhappy  end,  through 
thy  fault,  grieve  thou  for  the  fault,  but  accept  with 
patience  the  pain  of  the  misfortune,  and  bear  it 
willingly.  For  the  fault  is,  indeed,  contrary  to  My 
Will,  but  the  pain  consequent  on  the  fault,  is  ac- 
cording to  My  Will:  therefore,  the  fault  must  be 
grieved  for  and  detested,  but  the  pain  should  be 
embraced  and  lovingly  undergone. 

And,  if  any  misfortune  happen  through  another’s 
fault,  resign  thyself  even  in  such  an  event;  neither 
do  thou  lose  thy  patience  nor  peace  of  heart 

For,  if  I permit  the  successful  issue  of  anything 
to  be  hindered  by  the  fault  of  others,  this  is  itself 
a sign,  that  I do  not  will  thou  shouldst  be  successful. 
And  as,  whilst  permitting  the  fault,  I hate  it,  and 
will,  at  the  same  time,  the  unfavorable  issue  of  thy 
undertaking:  so  do  thou,  with  a similar  disposition 
of  heart,  abhor  that  fault  and  embrace  the  unpro- 
pitious  result. 

5.  My  Child,  were  thy  heart  rightly  disposed, 
thou  wouldst  be  resigned  under  all  circumstances; 
that  thus  thou  mightst  gather  from  each  of  them 
a new  pearl  to  adorn  thy  heavenly  crown. 

Assuredly,  a great  and  supernatural  discernment 
is  required  for  the  right  use  of  creatures:  for  even 
if  one  begins  with  a good  intention  to  employ  them, 
he  may  easily  become  entangled  and  go  wrong. 

Thou  shouldst  pray,  therefore,  and  implore  the 
light  and  assistance  of  grace,  that  thou  mayst  re- 
main free;  and  neither  fail  by  the  neglect  of  created 
means,  nor  exceed  in  the  use  of  them. 


386 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


6.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  Thou  the 
first  and  last  refuge  of  the  afflicted  heart!  what 
consolation  can  all  creatures  together  afford,  if  the 
unction  of  Thy  Heart’s  sweetness  is  wanting. 

So  often  as,  in  my  afflictions,  through  an  ill- 
ordered  inclination,  or  some  reason  contrary  to 
Thy  Will,  I have  had  recourse  to  creatures  and 
sought  consolation  in  them,  so  often  did  I return 
from  them  more  deeply  afflicted  and  rendered 
desolate. 

But  this  happened  through  the  goodness  of  Thy 
Heart,  that  I might  be  happily  pressed,  and  com- 
pelled, in  some  manner,  to  return  to  Thee,  infinite 
sweetness,  and  pour  out  my  sorrow-stricken  heait 
before  Thee, — who  art  ever  near  to  them  that  are 
troubled  in  heart, — and  who  alone  art  mighty  to 
give  true  consolation. 

Thanks  to  Thee,  most  benign  Jesus,  for  the  great 
kindness  of  Thy  Heart,  whereby  Thou  didst  deal 
so  mercifully  and  so  savingly  with  me. 

O Lord,  my  light  and  my  salvation!  illumine  my 
understanding,  that  in  presence  of  creatures  I may 
look  upon  Thee  alone:  purify  my  affections,  that  in 
the  use  of  them  I may  ever  love  Thee;  and  grant 
that,  disengaged  from  all,  I may  repose  in  Thee 
alone. 

Guide  me  by  Thy  Spirit,  Lord  Jesus,  and  make 
me  so  use  creatures,  that  I be  pleasing  to  Thee;  and 
so  pass  through  the  evils  of  time,  that  I obtain  the 
good  things  of  eternity. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


387 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

HOW,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  SHOULD  SUFFER  THE  OPPO- 
SITION AND  PERSECUTION  OF  MEN. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Dearly  beloved,  the  hour 
had  now  come  when  the  Son  of  man  would  be  de- 
livered into  the  hands  of  sinners. 

Behold,  Judas  Iscariot,  one  of  the  twelve  Apos- 
tles, and  with  him  a great  multitude  with  lanterns 
and  tools,  with  clubs  and  swords. 

And  he  went  before  them,  as  the  leader  of  My 
persecutors:  and  accosting  Me  with  a false  heart: 
Hail,  Rabbi,  said  he:  and  forthwith  he  kissed  Me; 
and  so  betrayed  Me  to  them. 

But  I,  knowing  all  that  was  to  come,  was  more 
intensely  grieved,  in  My  innermost  Heart,  at  the 
wretched  fate  of  My  unhappy  Disciple  and  of  the 
crowd,  than  at  My  own  suffering. 

Wherefore,  I began  to  try  My  utmost,  and  leave 
naught  undone,  to  soften  and  win  their  hearts. 

Disregarding  altogether  the  insult  offered,  with 
a friendly  countenance,  and  a more  loving  Heart,  I 
kindly  addressed  that  Apostle:  Friend,  whereto  art 
thou  come? 

His  heart  remaining  insensible  to  so  great  a 
goodness, — to  make  him  enter  into  himself,  I urged 
him  gently,  and  powerfully  at  the  same  time,  to 
cause  him  to  understand  that  I knew  his  crime,  and 
to  induce  him  to  reflect  on  the  enormity  thereof: 
Judas,  said  I,  Judas,  betrayest  thou  the  Son  of  man 
with  a kiss? 


388 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


When  he  heeded  not  My  saving  voice,  but,  on 
the  contrary,  hardened  his  heart,  then,  at  last,  I 
had  recourse  to  My  omnipotence,  yet  so  as  not  to 
interfere  with  his  free-will. 

Behold  now,  by  a miracle,  at  the  mere  sound  of 
My  voice,  as  if  struck  by  lightning,  I laid  prostrate 
the  treacherous  Disciple  and  his  whole  crowd;  and 
sent,  at  the  same  time,  a powerful  grace  to  his 
heart.  That  unfeeling  heart  was  moved;  but  he 
was  unwilling  to  hearken  to  its  emotion;  he  felt  the 
grace,  but  he  would  not  yield  to  the  same. 

2.  My  Child,  if  by  meditation  thou  wert  able,  to 
some  extent,  to  understand  with  how  great  a love 
My  Heart  had,  at  all  times,  pursued  them,  from 
whom  I received  such  things  in  return,  and  how  It 
had  ever  heaped  new  favors  upon  them;  thou 
shouldst  comprehend  how  unutterable  were  the 
sorrows  which,  like  torrents,  rushed  upon  and  over- 
flowed My  Heart. 

When  thou  hast  anything  similar  to  suffer,  Child, 
do  not  lose  courage:  but  let  the  example,  which  I 
gave  thee  for  thy  instruction  and  comfort,  animate 
and  console  thee. 

Verily  I say  to  thee,  Child,  thou  shalt  suffer  dis- 
tress in  the  world:  but  have  confidence  and  fear 
not,  because  I am  with  thee. 

Remember  My  saying:  The  servant  is  not  greater 
than  his  lord.  If  they  have  persecuted  Me,  what 
wonder  if  they  also  persecute  thee?  If  the  world 
hate  thee,  call  to  mind  how  it  hated  Me  first. 

3.  Know  this,  My  Child,  so  long  as  thou  art  the 
Disciple  of  My  Heart,— so  as  to  abhor  the  world 
and  its  sentiments,— that  wicked  enemy  will  oppose 
thee. 


CHAPTER  VIII.  389 

Thy  manner  of  acting  it  will  call  hypocrisy,  sin- 
gularity, or  some  other  vice. 

At  one  time,  it  will  pretend  that  it  pities  thee:  at 
another,  it  will  make  a mockery  of  thee. 

When  thou  withdrawest  into  solitude,  it  will  ac- 
cuse thee  of  melancholy  or  sourness  of  temper:  if 
thou  appearest  in  public,  it  will  endeavor  to  blacken 
thy  virtues;  and  thy  faults  it  will  either  exaggerate 
beyond  measure,  or  flatter  thee  for  them  unto  thy 
destruction. 

If,  according  to  the  zeal  of  thy  charity,  thou  la- 
borest  for  the  salvation  of  the  world;  thou  shalt, 
for  the  most  part,  find  an  unfeeling  indifference,  or 
receive  in  return  bitter  ungratefulness. 

These  things,  and  the  like,  will  the  votaries  of 
the  world  do  to  thee, — not  the  open  ones  alone,  but 
also  they  that  are  secretly  such;  not  only  they  that 
publicly  persecute  Virtue,  but  also  they  that  appar- 
ently seem  to  reverence  piety,  but,  in  reality,  think 
hardly  otherwise  than  the  very  worldings. 

Behold,  Child,  these  things  I have  foretold  thee 
that  when  they  come  to  pass  thou  mayst  remember 
My  Word;  and,  cheered  on  by  My  example,  remain 
firm  in  thy  resolve,  and  be  enabled  to  feel  compas- 
sion for  them  that  afflict  thee,  to  pray  for  them,  and 
even  to  be  zealous  for  their  salvation. 

Assuredly,  such  wretched  men  are  deserving 
of  all  pity;  they  injure  themselves  rather  than 
thee. 

4.  My  Child#,  thou  must  expect  this  during  thy 
lifetime,  that  thou  shalt  often  experience  that  men 
will  oppose  thee,  and  that  they  who  once  were  for 
thee, — being  now  unaccountably  changed, — will  be 
against  thee. 


390 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Beware,  then,  of  men;  do  not  rely  upon  them; 
whilst  they  favor  thee,  nor  be  thou  troubled  when 
they  go  against  thee. 

If  thou  deportest  thyself  so  toward  others  as  to 
keep  thy  heart  pure  and  free,  thou  wilt  resign  thy- 
self to  Me  with  more  ease  and  profit  when  they 
trouble  thee,  and  thou  shalt  preserve  thy  peace  and 
gain  merit. 

Go,  Child,  dwell  among  men  wheresoever  thou 
wilt:  thou  shalt  find  everywhere  those  that  will  try 
thy  patience. 

Shouldst  thou  deal  with  the  devout  only; 
shouldst  thou  live  among  persons  secluded  from 
the  world,  and  with  body  and  soul  consecrated  to 
Me,  even  there  thou  shalt  not  be  secure  against 
opponents. 

If  among  My  twelve  Apostles  there  was  one  who 
persecuted  Me,  wonder  not  that  among  them  that 
profess  a life  of  piety,  yea,  even  the  religious  state, 
there  be  found  some  who  oppose  thee. 

5.  Yea,  Child,  all  they  that  desire  to  lead  an  in- 
terior life  shall  suffer  persecution.  For  to  an  in- 
terior and  devoted  Disciple  of  My  Heart,  persecu- 
tion is  never  wanting. 

And,  indeed,  persecution  is  manifold;  just  as 
martyrdom  is  manifold. 

For  there  is  persecution  from  enemies,  and  from 
friends:  there  is  persecution  from  visible  foes,  and 
from  the  invisible  as  well:  there  is  persecution  from 
the  wicked,  and  also  from  the  good.  . 

So,  there  is  a martyrdom  of  faith,  there  is  also 
one  of  charity:  there  is  a martyrdom  of  the  body, 
there  is  also  one  of  the  soul;  lastly,  there  is  a great 
martyrdom  of  the  heart. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


391 


My  Child,  if  thou  desirest  to  become  a perfect 
Disciple  of  My  Heart,  thou  must,  in  some  manner 
or  other,  be  a martyr. 

For,  as  such  a Disciple,  thou  art  a companion  of 
the  Saints.  Gaze,  therefore,  upon  that  mighty 
host  which  no  one  can  count,  standing  before  the 
throne  of  the  divine  Majesty,  with  palms  in  their 
hands,  the  symbol  of  martyrdom. 

Although  the  Saints  did  not  all  shed  their  blood, 
all  did,  however,  undergo  sufferings,  that  they  might 
obtain  the  palm  of  some  martyrdom. 

6.  But  observe,  My  Child,  that  no  one,  who  is 
truly  a martyr,  chooses  for  himself,  by  his  own  will, 
his  own  martyrdom;  but  that  he  suffers  that  one 
which  has  been  inspired,  or  appointed  him  from 
above. 

Believe  thou,  therefore,  that  to  be  thy  martyr- 
dom, whatsoever  has  been  presented  to  thee  by  di- 
vine Providence  in  thy  state,  employment,  or  other 
circumstances,  wherein  thou  art  placed. 

To  obtain  an  opportunity  of  suffering  martyr- 
dom, it  is  not  necessary  to  betake  thyself  to  infidel 
and  barbarous  nations,  or  to  look  for  an  avowed 
persecutor  of  the  Church. 

The  world  persecutes  thee:  man  troubles  thee: 
one  betrays  thee:  another  mocks  and  derides  thee: 
this  one  humbles  thee:  that  one  opposes  thee:  cor- 
rupt nature,  or  an  ill-regulated  propensity,  resists 
thee:  something  else  is  a source  of  grief  to  thee: 
lo,  My  Child,  here  is  thy  persecutor. 

Despite  the  contradiction  of  men  and  their  oppo- 
sition; despite  their  sayings  and  annoyances,  thou 
keepest  bravely  and  generously  the  precepts  of  re- 
ligion and  thy  rules,  thou  practicest  virtue,  and 


392 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


employest  thyself  in  piety:  behold  thy  martyrdom 
of  faith. 

Thou  prayest  for  thy  persecutors:  thou  lovest 
and  helpest,  in  spite  of  natural  repugnance,  thy 
neighbors  who  are  ill-affected  toward  thee : thou 
art  zealous  for  their  salvation,  and  offerest  up  for 
them  thy  prayers,  labors,  and  sufferings:  behold 
thy  martyrdom  of  charity. 

Sickness  torments  thee:  thy  head,  thy  breast, 
thy  limbs  are  aching:  hard  work  is  killing  thee: 
behold  the  martyrdom  of  the  body. 

Thou  sufferest  interior  anguish : thou  feelest 
racking  temptations:  or  such  things  as  divine  love 
employs  to  purify  altogether,  and  to  perfect  thy 
soul:  behold  the  martyrdom  of  the  soul,  and  of  the 
heart. 

But  remember,  My  Child,  that  for  those  who 
have  attained  to  the  use  of  reason  an  unwilling 
martyrdom,  or  one  which  they  endure  for  some 
cause  or  reason  whatsoever  it  may  be,  is  of  no 
avail;  for  it  must  be  undergone  willingly,  with  res- 
ignation, or,  at  least,  with  patience,  for  the  love 
of  God.  It  is  not  enough,  then,  to  suffer,  but  thou 
must  suffer  voluntarily  for  My  love.  A martyr- 
dom, not  quickened  by  divine  love,  is  dead  and 
worthless. 

Behold!  Child,  a manifold  crown  is  offered  to 
thee,  one  which  thousands  of  mortals  of  every  state 
and  condition  of  life  have  eagerly  sought  for,  one 
which  so  many  youths  and  maidens  have  exultingly 
borne  off:  and  art  not  thou  also  able  and  willing  to 
pursue  and  obtain  the  same? 

Look  up  to  heaven:  contemplate  the  glory  of 
the  Saints,  and  their  blessedness;  remember  that 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


393 


they  are  thy  brothers  and  sisters:  raise  thy  cour- 
age, secure  for  thyself  a crown  and  palm,  that  thou 
mayst  be  received  among  them. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet 
Jesus,  Thou  who  art  the  Chief  and  Crown  of  Mar- 
tyrs, the  Comforter  of  mortals!  I frequently  expe- 
rience that  men  are  opposed  to  me,  and  I feel  it 
deeply. 

If,  however,  I be  sincere,  I am  forced  to  confess 
that  I have  no  cause  of  complaint:  for  I,  the  mean- 
est and  most  ungrateful  of  men,  have  followed  Ju- 
das and  his  throng  against  Thee,  my  Lord  and 
God. 

Hence,  I own  it,  I truly  deserve  to  be  abhorred 
by  every  creature.  Hence  I am  every  way  unwor- 
thy to  be  loved  by  Thee,  or  to  be  admitted  among 
the  sainted  Disciples  of  Thy  Heart. 

Yet,  since  Thou  hast  a Heart  so  kind  that  Thou 
didst  desire  to  admit  even  Judas,  and  didst  use 
every  endeavor  to  gain  him!  how  can  I distrust  or 
fear!  On  the  contrary,  how  great  a hope  and  con- 
fidence should  I not  have,  that,  how  wretched  so- 
ever I may  be,  Thou  wilt  not  cast  me  off,  when  I 
come  to  Thee,  but  wilt  mercifully  receive  and  help 
me! 

Relying,  therefore,  upon  the  goodness  and  grace 
of  Thy  Heart,  I resolve  to  make  atonement  for  my 
past  infidelity  by  my  persevering  love;  to  undergo 
for  love  of  Thee  the  martyrdom  graciously  offered 
to  me;  and  thus,  finally,  to  sanctify  myself  to  the 
everlasting  joy  and  glory  of  Thy  Heart. 


394 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

HOW,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  SHOULD  BEAR  TO  BE  FOR- 
SAKEN BY  PERSONS  WHO  ARE  SERVICEABLE  OR 

NEEDFUL  TO  US. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — When  the  crowds  had 
drawn  near,  and  laid  hands  on  Me,  behold!  My  Dis- 
ciples all  fled,  and  left  Me  alone  in  the  midst  of  My 
enemies. 

Such  are  they,  My  Child,  whom  I had  chosen; 
whom  I had  trained  with  all  the  care,  solicitude, 
and  love  of  My  Heart;  to  whom  I had  made  known 
all  things  whatsoever  I had  heard  of  My  Father. 

These  are  the  very  same,  that,  a little  before, 
had  all,  in  like  manner,  protested  that,  even  if  it 
were  necessary  to  die  with  Me,  they  would  not  deny 
Me. 

But  now,  when  it  was  the  power  of  darkness,  and 
the  time  of  trial,  forgetful  of  Me,  their  Saviour  and 
Father,  they  all  became  runaways. 

Reflect,  Child,  how  grievously  this  total  dere- 
liction on  the  part  of  My  Disciples  wounded  My 
Heart. 

Give  heed  also,  and  ponder,  with  what  sentiments 
of  Heart  I bore  this  affliction. 

2.  If  thou  dost  truly  enter  into  these  sentiments 
of  My  Heart,  thou  shalt  be  able  to  endure  calmly 
and  meritoriously  for  My  sake,  to  be  forsaken  by 
all  men  whomsoever. 

It  happens  not  rarely,  that  man  is  suffered  to  be 


CHAPTER  IX. 


395 


abandoned,  even  in  his  distress,  by  persons  very 
useful  or  necessary  to  him,  that  thus  he  may  be  as- 
similated more  perfectly  to  Me,  and  be  raised  higher 
in  sanctity.  This  shows  forth  more  gloriously  the 
power  of  My  love,  which  so  strengthens  weak  man, 
that,  though  alone,  he  stands  ever  firm,  even  whilst 
the  raging  winds  and  storms  of  adversity  are  rush- 
ing upon  him. 

This,  too,  is  oftentimes  useful,  that  man  may 
wholly  free  himself  from  creatures,  and  leave  him- 
self completely. 

For  when,  on  the  one  hand,  he  sees  himself  for- 
saken by  men,  he  easily  withdraws  his  heart  from 
them  to  give  it  to  Me,  who  abandon  no  one;  and 
when,  on  the  other  hand,  he  perceives  that  he  is 
unequal  to  the  troubles  which  assail  him,  he  comes, 
as  it  were  of  his  own  accord,  to  Me,  and  throws 
himself,  and  all  he  has,  into  My  paternal  bosom. 

It  is,  indeed,  heroic  and  worthy  of  the  divine 
approval,  that  a person  abandoned  by  all,  be  equally 
satisfied  with  this  dereliction, — love  the  more  purely 
those  who  forsake  him,  endure  willingly,  for  My  love, 
the  loss  of  men’s  affections,  and  repose,  amidst  all 
accidents,  in  Me  alone.  This,  surely,  is  the  mark 
of  a humble  heart,  which  gives  itself  wholly  to  My 
love. 

3.  When  one  possesses  the  affections  of  another, 
— although  he  may  have  a good  enough  object  in 
view, — he  frequently  allows  much  to  creep  in  which 
is  ill-regulated,  or  at  least  merely  human. 

But  I, — who  am  a zealous  lover  of  the  heart, 
who  do  not  wish  that  man’s  heart  should  be  busied 
except  with  Me  or  for  Me, — am  wont  so  to  arrange 
matters,  that  he  is  sometimes  forsaken  or  discarded 


390 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


by  mortals,  even  by  those  who  it  seems  ought  to 
have  shared  with  him  his  weal  or  woe  till  death. 

A person  must  contend  much  and  long  with  him- 
self, that  he  may  order  perfectly  the  desire  of  being 
loved  by  others. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — But,  O Lord,  is 
it  evil,  without  a bad  intention,  to  desire,  or  even 
seek  to  be  loved  by  others? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  it  is  one  thing 
to  wish  or  seek  this  for  thyself,  and  another  to  de- 
sire, or  to  seek  it,  for  My  sake. 

If  thou  seekest  another’s  affections  in  order  to 
delight  or  repose  thyself  therein:  if  thou  desirest 
them  on  account  of  personal  qualities  to  indulge 
thy  own  inclination:  finally,  if,  in  any  manner,  thou 
so  wishest  for  them,  as,  either  directly  or  indirectly, 
to  finish  with  self — some  gratification  of  nature: 
thou  wouldst  fain  be  loved  for  thy  own  sake. 

If,  on  the  contrary,  thou  desirest  or  strivest  to 
gain  the  love  of  others  in  order  to  devote  thyself  to 
My  interests,  to  secure  their  everlasting  salvation, 
or  to  promote  the  perfection  of  souls, — to  extend 
the  kingdom  of  My  love,  to  win  hearts  for  Me:  be- 
hold! thou  seekest  to  be  loved  for  My  sake. 

Now,  My  Child,  if,  in  a direct  or  indirect  manner, 
thou  aspirest  to  be  loved  for  thyself;  this,  although 
it  be  done  with  no  evil  intention,  is  inordinate, — 
since  not  thou,  but  I Myself  am  thy  end:  therefore, 
it  is  imperfect,  and,  what  is  more  to  be  dreaded,  it 
is  wont  not  only  to  lead  to  sin,  but  also  to  entangle 
men  therein. 

But,  if  thou  desirest  to  be  loved  for  My  sake, 
thy  love  is  well-ordered,  it  is  pure,  it  is  love  for 
Me;  it  is  a love  with  which  the  Saints  have  loved, 


CHAPTER  IX. 


397 


and  sought  to  be  loved;  by  means  of  which  they 
have  accomplished  much  good,  and  which  thou, 
Child,  shouldst  employ  in  like  manner. 

4.  There  is  hardly  anything  in  the  world,  to 
which  the  human  heart  cleaves  more  feelingly,  than 
to  friendship,  which — full  of  change  as  it  is — is 
wont  to  be  either  very  advantageous  or  very  preju- 
dicial. 

A precious  possession  hard  to  find,  more  difficult 
to  keep,  is  genuine,  pure  friendship,  whereby  one 
roves  another  sincerely  for  love  of  Me;  whereby 
one  seeks  the  true  good  of  another  as  his  own; 
whereby,  without  flattery,  without  human  respect, 
one  takes  care  to  correct  the  faults  of  the  other,  to 
cheer  him  on  and  assist  him  to  acquire  virtue  and 
sanctity;  whereby  one  is  faithful  to  the  other  in 
adversity  and  prosperity,  in  death,  yea  after  death, 
as  well  as  during  life. 

My  Child,  if  thou  lovest  any  one,  and  so  lovest 
him,  that  thou  growest  uneasy  in  consequence,  that 
thou  art  moved  rather  frequently  to  occupy  thy 
mind  or  heart  with  him,  at  proper  and  improper 
times;  that  thou  desirest  to  hold  long  or  frequent 
conversations  with  him;  that  thou  givest  heed  to 
his  outward  accomplishments,  and  entertainest  or 
directest  thy  affections  by  them;  that  thou  makest 
bold  to  express  thy  admiration  for  him  or  to  flatter 
him  in  his  presence;  that  thou  callest  his  defects 
by  an  honorable  name,  or  excusest  them,  that  thou 
takest  ill  that  others  be  loved  by  him;  that  thou 
seemest  in  some  sort  inconsolable,  or  too  unhappy, 
when  thou  must  altogether  part  with  him;  then  thy 
love,  thy  friendship,  is  not  genuine  nor  pure,  even 
if  thou  do  not  observe  it,  even  if  thou  do  not  sus- 


398 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


pect  it.  But  if,  on  the  contrary,  thou  experiencest 
none  of  these  things,  thou  hast  a good  sign  in  favor 
of  thy  love  and  friendship. 

My  Child,  if  thou  hast  a true  and  sincere  friend, 
a rare  treasure,  deport  thyself  in  a becoming  man- 
ner in  his  regard,  and  so  deal  with  him,  that  whether 
he  remain  faithful  or  prove  faithless,  thou  never 
regret  to  have  so  acted. 

But,  although  friendship,  founded  upon  love  for 
Me,  is  of  itself  good,  thou  shouldst,  however,  keep 
thy  heart  so  free,  that,  if  I so  dispose  things,  thou 
art  willing  to  possess  Me  alone,  instead  of  all  others, 
as  the  friend  who  suffices  for  thee. 

Thy  heart  shall  never  be  altogether  quiet,  nor 
prepared  for  an  intimate  union  with  Me, — whatso- 
ever else  thou  mayst  do, — unless,  soaring  beyond 
every  natural  affection,  it  love  with  My  love  alone, 
and  repose  in  the  sole  love  of  Me. 

(Therefore,  Child,  centre  thy  affections  on  Me; 
6ind  thy  heart  to  Mine,  that  it  may  neither  fall  nor 
shake,  if  men  withdraw  themselves. 

5.  What  are  men  except  pliant  and  frail  reeds, 
whereon  thou  canst  not  lean  securely,  if  thou  wilt 
not  expose  thyself  to  the  risk  of  reeling  or  falling? 

Even  should  mortals  not  depart  from  thee,  thou 
thyself  must  in  a short  time  depart  from  them, — 
since  death  separates  each  and  all. 

When  thou  art  forsaken  by  men,  thou  shalt  no- 
where find  a surer  nor  greater  solace  than  near  Me, 
— who  was,  for  love  of  thee,  treated  in  like  manner. 

Be  not  exasperated,  Child,  nor  do  thou  complain, 
as  if  thou  didst  not  deserve  to  be  so  dealt  with,  at 
least  by  this  or  by  that  one. 

Ah,  My  Child!  if  thou  art  not  willing  to  suffer, 


CHAPTER  IX. 


399 


except  from  whomso  it  may  please  thee,  what  prin- 
ciple of  virtue  dost  thou  possess?  And  if  thou  art 
willing  to  suffer  only  what  thou  hast  deserved,  what 
is  there  great  in  that?  or  what  therein  is  worthy  of 
a Disciple  of  My  Heart? 

6.  If  any  do,  in  some  manner  or  other,  fall  away 
from  thee,  show  to  them  by  thy  friendly  disposition, 
thy  mildness,  and  thy  honorable  treatment  of  them, 
what  pure  charity  is  able  to  do,  which, — overlook- 
ing all  repugnances  of  natural  feeling, — devotes 
itself  rather  to  their  good  than  to  thy  own  inclina- 
tion, even  after  they  have  rendered  themselves  un- 
worthy. 

It  is  true,  Child,  it  is  difficult  so  to  go  against 
nature:  but  a humble  Disciple  of  My  Heart,  one 
who  is  animated  by  love  for  Me,  does  not  regard 
the  opposition  of  nature,  but  the  object  of  his  love: 
and,  whilst  another,  in  his  coldness  and  lukewarm- 
ness, remains  hesitating,  he,  in  his  fervor,  has  al- 
ready surmounted  the  difficulty. 

Inflame  thy  heart  with  the  fire  of  love,  where- 
with My  Heart  is  burning:  glow  thou  with  that 
fire:  love  thou  with  that  love:  if  thou  do  this,  be- 
hold I all  difficulties  will  flee  before  thee  and  dis- 
appear. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple.  — Blessed  is  he 
who,  enkindled  and  enraptured  with  love  for  Thee, 
follows  Thee,  O Jesus,  love  of  love,  divine  charm 
of  the  heart  I He  runs  cheerfully  through  every 
hardship;  and  soon,  rising  above  everything  of 
man  and  self,  with  heart  dilated,  on  the  expanded 
wings  of  divine  love,  is  borne  aloft  with  Thee, — se- 
curely united  to  Thee. 

O most  sweet  and  bountiful  Jesus  ! grant  me,  I 


4oo 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


beg  and  entreat  Thee,  this  love  so  fervent,  so  effica- 
cious, whereby  I may  love  Thee  for  Thyself,  and 
naught  beside,  save  for  Thyself:  whereby  I may 
endure  it  with  ease,  if  Thou  sufferest  me  to  be  for- 
saken by  men. 

Be  Thou  only  forever  with  me:  Thou  alone  wilt 
be  enough.  Should  all,  abandoning  me,  betake 
themselves  to  flight,  my  heart  shall  not  be  troubled, 
if  Thou  art  with  me. 

This  alone  do  I crave,  and  will  not  cease  to  ask, 
that  they  who  shun  and  forsake  me,  may  not  shun 
nor  abandon  Thee:  but,  on  the  contrary,  may  cling 
to  Thee  more  closely,  may  love  Thee  more  per- 
fectly. 


CHAPTER  X. 

HOW  WE  MAY  IMITATE  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART 
OF  JESUS  MADE  A PRISONER. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — My  Child,  the  soldiers 
and  the  attendants  of  the  Jews,  rising  from  the 
ground,  rushed  upon  Me,  and  having  seized  Me, 
they  bound  Me. 

Behold,  Child,  behold  the  Lamb  of  God  in  the 
hands  of  the  executioners,  bound  for  the  sacrifice! 
bound,  because  He  willed  it;  and  He  willed  it  be- 
cause He  loved. 

For  the  chains  of  love  pressed  My  Heart  more 
tightly  than  the  fetters  of  My  enemies  bound  My 
hands. 


CHAPTER  X. 


401 


And,  unless  My  Heart,  led  captive  by  love,  had 
hindered  it,  My  almighty  hands  could  have  de- 
stroyed My  enemies,  and  broken  their  chains. 

But  love  endures  all  things:  no  humiliation  does 
it  think  too  great,  no  suffering  does  it  consider  ex- 
cessive: whatsoever  it  wills,  it  seizes  and  holds,  and 
remains  itself  ever  free. 

O if  thou  knewest,  My  Child,  how  great  a 
blessedness  it  is,  to  be  the  captive  of  divine  love, 
assuredly  thou  wouldst  not,  wert  thou  able,  even  for 
a moment,  desire  to  be  thy  own  master;  but  thou 
wouldst  willingly  deliver  up  body  and  soul,  thyself, 
and  all  thou  hast,  that  by  it  thou  mightest  be  bound 
and  held! 

2.  He  that  lives  under  divine  love,  thinks 
neither  persecutions,  nor  chains,  nor  imprisonment, 
nor  death  itself,  suffered  for  My  sake,  anything 
doleful  or  unfortunate;  but  he  rather  deems  it  a 
great  gain,  an  object  worthy  of  a holy  ambition,  to 
suffer  all  this  for  love  of  Me. 

Why,  thinkest  thou,  does  it  happen,  that  some, 
when,  to  keep  the  faith,  they  must  suffer  chains  or 
inconveniences,  do  not  remain  in  the  truth,  but  go 
after  the  inventions  of  men,  and  fall  into  the  judg- 
ment of  condemnation?  Is  it  not  because  they  are 
not  impelled  by  pure  love  for  Me — so  as  to  be 
willing  to  lose  their  life  in  this  world,  that  they 
may  save  it  in  the  next? 

Hence,  Child,  as  they  are  unwilling  to  be  My 
fellow-captives,  they  become  the  prisoners  of  the 
devil;  and  as  they  desire  to  save  their  life  in  time, 
they  lose  it  in  eternity. 

My  Child,  if  ever  it  be  thy  lot  to  undergo  chains 
or  imprisonment  for  virtue,  do  not  fear  them  that 


402 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


may  kill  the  body,  but  tan  do  naught  beyond;  but 
rather  fear  Him  who  can  destroy  body  and  soul 
forever. 

3.  It  is  a grace,  a happiness,  to  undergo  afflic- 
tions for  My  sake,  if  thou  sufferest  them  unmerit- 
edly.  Whilst  partaking  of  My  sufferings,  it  be- 
hooves thee  to  rejoice,  as  about  to  exult  in  the 
revelation  of  My  glory. 

Let  none  suffer  as  a wrong-doer,  a scoffer,  or  a 
criminal;  but,  if  as  My  Disciple,  let  him  not  be 
ashamed,  let  him  glorify  Me  in  that  name,  by  en- 
during courageously  and  perseveringly  — piously 
and  humbly  manifesting  his  joy,  for  that  he  is 
reckoned  among  them  who  were  deemed  worthy 
to  suffer  for  My  sake,  and  thus  to  become  Saints. 

Some  of  whom  were  racked;  some  underwent 
mockeries  and  stripes,  beside  chains  and  prisons; 
others  were  stoned;  others  were  tortured  and  cut 
asunder;  others  again  perished  by  the  sword; 
others,  finally,  wandered  about  in  sheep-skins,  and 
disguised  in  other  garments,  in  want,  distressed, 
afflicted;  wandering  over  mountains,  in  dens,  and 
in  caves  of  the  earth. 

Bu/t  to  them,  of  whom  the  world  was  not  worthy, 
because  they  persevered  and  overcame  with  Me  by 
suffering — I gave  to  sit  with  Me  on  a throne,  as 
also  I,  by  suffering,  persevered  and  overcame,  and 
am  seated  on  a throne  with  My  Father. 

How  blissful  art  thou,  My  Child,  if,  for  My  sake, 
thou  becomest  a partner  in  affliction  with  these!  be- 
cause whatever  there  is  of  everlasting  glory  and 
honor,  whatever  there  is  of  true  virtue  and  holiness, 
whatever,  finally,  there  is  of  the  Spirit  of  My 
Heart,  rests  upon  thee. 


CHAPTER  X. 


403 


4.  But  not  to  every  one  is  given  an  opportunity 
of  suffering  chains  and  tortures  for  virtue.  All 
they,  however,  who  strive  after  a perfect  Imitation 
of  My  Heart,  can  and  must,  in  some  sort,  become 
captives  for  the  sake  of  virtue. 

For  who  is  there  that  cannot  bring  the  senses  of 
his  body  into  captivity — not  merely  that  they  may 
do  no  evil  nor  yield  to  vanity — but  that  they  may 
be  held  within  restraint,  and  exercised  in  the  prac- 
tice of  virtue? 

Few,  however,  preserve  their  senses  within  the 
limits  of  reason;  and  fewer  still  mortify  them  ac- 
cording to  the  principles  of  faith. 

My  Child,  how  art  thou  wont  to  deal  with  the 
senses  of  thy  body?  Dost  thou  not  suffer  them  to 
be  too  free?  Consider  what,  in  regard  to  them,  is 
desired  for  perfection. 

5.  As  to  the  powers  of  the  soul,  canst  thou  not 
also,  in  some  manner,  bring  them  into  captivity? 
Thy  roaming  imagination, — so  tenacious  of  the 
past,  and  so  inquisitive  as  to  the  future, — thou  wilt 
force,  by  degrees,  to  be  sufficiently  subject  to  thee,  if 
thou  recallest  her  forthwith  when  she  makes  her 
escape;  if  at  home,  thou  entertainest  her  con- 
stantly with  things  useful;  if  thou  repressest  assid- 
uously her  sudden  impulses  and  triflings,  until  she 
be  accustomed  to  remain  quiet. 

Keep  thy  mind  wholly  subject,  as  is  proper,  in 
obedience  to  faith;  lest,  perchance,  becoming  a 
searcher  of  Majesty,  thou  be  overwhelmed  by 
glory,  or  a fugitive  from  truth,  thou  become  a slave 
of  error. 

Nay,  more  subdue  thy  opinions,  and, — unless  some 
other  virtue  forbid  it, — subject  the  same,  for  chari- 


404 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


ty’s  sake,  to  the  judgment  of  others.  By  so  doing 
thou  shalt  gain  the  more,  the  more  truth-like  thy 
own  opinion  appears,  and  the  more  difficult  it  is, 
consequently,  to  subdue  the  same. 

To  be  inwardly  and  outwardly  unguarded  and 
dissipated  proceeds  from  the  defect  of  a heart 
which  is  a slave,  either  to  its  enemies,  to  its  pas- 
sions, or  even  to  itself. 

Thy  chief  care,  therefore,  should  be  to  keep  thy 
heart  free  from  the  servitude  of  all  things  inferior. 
For  only  then  wilt  thou  be  able  to  devote  it,  in  its 
vigor,  with  all  its  affections,  to  pure,  supernal  char- 
ity, and  to  become  My  fellow-captive  in  the  chains 
of  divine  love. 

6.  Marvelous  is  Charity  in  its  workings.  If  thou 
servest  Charity,  behold!  all  things  shall  be  turned 
for  thee  into  blessings. 

Love  Me,  Child,  thy  God  and  Saviour;  by  loving 
thou  wilt  learn  to  love  Me  more  perfectly : love  is  bet- 
ter learnt  and  perfected  by  loving  than  by  speculating. 

If  thy  heart  is  wholly  submissive  to  My  love, 
thou  wilt  easily  and  carefully  guard  against  that 
false  freedom  of  thinking,  of  speaking,  of  acting 
according  as  thou  feelest  inclined. 

This  mad  license — not  true  freedom — what  else 
is  it  except  a cloak  of  the  passions,  the  bane  of 
virtue,  the  realm  of  vice,  the  misfortune  of  fami- 
lies, the  ruin  of  cloisters,  the  plague  of  society? 

And  the  more  widely  this  evil  daily  spreads 
among  worldlings,  the  more  plausibly  it  creeps  in 
among  the  godly,  the  more  cunningly  it  enters  even 
among  religious;  with  the  more  care  oughtest  thou 
to  put  thyself  on  thy  guard,  lest  it  also  infect  thy 
heart;  and  lest,  under  the  appearance  of  good,  if 


CHAPTER  X. 


405 


draw  the  same  away  from  the  servitude  of  humble 
love,  to  the  freedom  of  the  flesh,  which  leads  to  the 
slavery  of  hell. 

Thou  canst  not  be  thy  own  master,  how  much  so 
ever  thou  mayst  desire  and  strive  to  be  so.  Thou 
art  bound  to  love,  and,  therefore,  to  devote  thyself 
to  some  object,  even  in  spite  of  thyself.  But  thou 
canst  not  give  thyself  up  to  anything  created,  with- 
out the  most  grievous  injustice  and  the  basest 
ingratitude  to  Me,  and  without  manifold  evil  to 
thyself. 

Wherefore,  Child,  be  willingly  Mine!  give  thyself 
up  to  My  love;  since,  in  order  that  thou  mightst 
be  Mine,  I was  willing  to  be  a captive  for  thee. 

How  happy  shalt  thou  be,  when  bound,  inwardly 
and  outwardly,  by  the  same  chains  of  love,  that 
unite  with  Me  the  Angels  and  Saints  in  heaven! 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  loving 
Jesus!  to  wThat  extent  didst  Thou  love  me,  who 
didst  condescend  to  become  a captive  for  me, — a 
captive  of  sorrows  in  the  hands  of  Thy  enemies, 
that  Thou  mightst  allure  and  make  me  a captive 
of  Thy  love! 

O Lord,  my  Saviour!  when  I call  to  mind  Thy 
chains,  I utterly  despise  in  my  heart  all  worldly 
free  lorn — desirous  of  being  Thy  fellow-captive  in 
chains. 

If  the  fetters  of  enemies  are  wanting  to  me,  behold! 
I give  myself  up  to  the  chains  of  love,  that,  all  the 
senses  of  my  body  and  the  powers  of  my  soul  being 
seized  and  made  subject,  I may  be  so  bound  to 
Thee,  as  never  to  be  separated  from  Thee. 

Grant,  I beseech  Thee,  Lord  Jesus,  that  these 
may  be  no  empty  washes,  but  efficacious  resolves, 


406 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


which,  with  Thy  grace,  I may  fulfill  for  the  conso- 
lation of  Thy  Heart,  and  the  sanctification  of  my 
soul, — for  which  Thou  hast  so  much  suffered. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

HOW,  AETER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  IT  BEHOOVES  US  TO  BEAR  FALSE 

ACCUSATIONS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  hereafter  thou 
shalt  see  the  Son  of  man,  although  the  Supreme 
Judge  of  the  living  and  the  dead,  cited,  accused, 
and  condemned  by  sinners  deserving  everlasting 
death. 

For  behold!  they  led  Me  bound  to  the  High- 
priest,  where  the  other  priests,  and  the  Scribes,  and 
Pharisees  had  assembled. 

The  chiefs  of  the  priests  and  the  whole  council 
sought  false  witness  against  Me,  that  they  might 
put  Me  to  death. 

And  many,  coming  forward,  bore  false  witness 
against  Me. 

But  the  High-priest  rising  up,  said  to  Me:  An- 
swerest  Thou  nothing  to  the  things  which  these 
men  bring  against  Thee? 

My  Child,  what,  thinkest  thou,  did  I reply  to 
their  false  testimony,  and  to  the  saying  of  the 
High-priest,  in  order  to  defend  Myself?  What  say 
the  Scriptures?  “But  Jesus  was  silent.” 

So  it  is,  My  Child,  I was  silent  with  My  tongue, 
as  a man  that  has  no  disproof  in  his  mouth;  but 


CHAPTER  XI.  407 

with  My  Heart  I spoke  to  My  heavenly  Father, 
conforming  Myself  to  His  good  pleasure,  and  be- 
seeching Him  to  have  pity  on  those  wretched  mer ; 
to  pour  into  their  hearts  the  abundant  grace  of  til 
Holy  Spirit,  in  order  to  save  their  unhappy  souls. 

2.  My  Child,  knowing  that  it  is  most  painful  to- 
be  assailed  with  false  accusations;  and  most  difficult 
to  bear  them  perfectly,  I willed  that  My  Heart 
should  be  in  the  highest  degree  assaulted  and  over- 
whelmed with  unjust  calumnies,  that,  when  thou 
thyself  art  falsely  accused,  thou  mayst  find  some 
solace  in  My  Heart,  which  was  similarly  afflicted, 
and  from  Its  example  receive  a secure  guidance. 

And  truly,  there  is  hardly  anything  more  painful 
to  the  human  heart  than  to  be  defamed  with  false 
accusations.  Hence,  some  persons  are  thereby  so 
much  disturbed  in  their  reason,  that,  overcome  by 
feeling,  if  they  could  lawfully  choose,  they  would 
prefer  to  die  rather  than  to  live  so  dishonored. 

My  Child,  take  heed,  lest  thou  suffer  thyself  to 
be  troubled  or  be  clouded  in  mind : but,  with  a calm 
heart,  examine  the  matter  better:  act  as  a worthy 
Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

Remember,  that  neither  the  malice  of  those  that 
defame  thee  by  false  reports,  nor  the  error  of  those 
that  believe  falsehood,  can  make  thee  different  from 
what  thou  art,  nor  take  away  the  virtue  of  thy 
greatness  of  soul,  which  lifts  itself  above  falsehood 
uttered  and  believed. 

But,  if  thou  vie  west  the  matter  in  the  light  of 
faith,  thou  shalt  see  that  its  sublime  excellence, 
heavenly  honor,  everlasting  reward,  correspond  to 
the  greatness  of  thy  humiliation. 

And  although  thou  mayst  be  innocent  of  the 


40  8 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


faults  objected  to  thee,  as,  however,  thou  hast,  in 
many  things,  offended  the  divine  Majesty,  thou 
shouldst  willingly  embrace  the  opportunity  of  sat- 
isfying for  those  things  in  time,  which  otherwise 
may  remain  to  be  atoned  for  in  eternity. 

Moreover,  even  shouldst  thou  prefer  to  cleanse 
thyself  of  thy  offenses,  and  to  enter  heaven  by  other 
means;  yet,  do  thou  rather  receive  these  things 
offered  thee  by  divine  Providence,  as  both  more 
certain  and  more  secure. 

How  painful  soever  these  things  may  be  to  the 
feelings  of  nature,  suffer  them,  My  Child;  undergo 
them  for  love  of  Me ; bear  them  with  Me. 

And  if  thy  heart  almost  fail  thee  for  grief,  come 
thou  to  My  Heart,  which  suffered  more  painful 
things  for  thy  sake:  here  strengthen  thy  heart, 
protesting  that,  in  spite  of  nature,  thou  art  willing, 
for  love  of  Me,  to  be  resigned. 

3.  I am  absolutely  unwilling,  My  Child,  that 
thou  shouldst  hate  thy  neighbor,  how  much  soever 
he  may  wrong  thee.  But,  although  I gave  a com- 
mand of  loving  even  enemies,  yet  I insisted  on  no 
precept  of  being  silent  or  of  omitting  to  justify 
thyself  against  false  accusations:  a counsel,  how- 
ever, I give,  unless  silence  be  sinful. 

He,  therefore,  who,  when  falsely  accused,  speaks 
with  a sincere  heart,  and  in  a proper  manner,  in  his 
own  defense,  sins  not:  but  he  that  speaks  not,  does 
better. 

It  is  certainly  a very  great  perfection,  to  endure 
in  silence  false  accusations:  to  suffer  that  men  be- 
lieve about  thee  whatsoever  they  may  please;  to 
intrust  thyself  wholly  to  Me  alone,  and  resignedly 
to  remain  with  Me. 


CHAPTER  XI.  409 

Behold!  herein  does  grace  triumph:  this  fills  the 
Angels  with  admiration;  this  unites  thee  in  fellow- 
ship with  the  Saints;  this  gives  glory  to  God  in  the 
highest;  this  proves  thee  truly  a humble  lover  of 
Me,  and  a genuine  Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

This  is  the  great  secret  of  the  interior  life,  drawn 
out  of  My  Heart,  which  many  hear,  and  many  even 
admire:  but  which  few  relish,  and  fewer  follow. 

4.  The  Saints,  however,  appreciated  this  fully, 
and  found  it  quite  to  their  taste;  burning  with  love 
for  Me,  and  animated  with  a desire  of  following 
Me,  they  suffered,  with  a joyful  heart,  false  testi- 
monies of  every  kind. 

And,  when  with  one  word  they  might  have  justi- 
fied themselves  and  regained  their  good  name, — in- 
trusting the  care  of  their  defense  to  Me, — they  pre- 
ferred to  be  silent  with  Me,  and  to  be  considered  the 
outcast  and  offscouring  of  this  world,  lest  they  might 
be  found  unlike  to  Me,  and  display  a doubtful  love. 

It  is  most  true,  My  Child,  that  this  is  neither 
easy,  according  to  human  feelings;  nor  does  natural 
reason  alone  furnish  a sufficient  incitement  there- 
to: but  feeling  and  reason  must  be  transcended  by 
means  of  faith  and  love,  which  present  and  press 
forward  abundant  and  most  powerful  motives  and 
incentives. 

Know,  Child,  if  thou  art  not  willing  to  act,  ex- 
cept from  feeling  or  natural  reason,  thou  shalt  not 
only  never  be  perfect,  but  not  even  saved. 

Live  by  faith;  act  out  of  love  for  Me.  And  if 
nature  resists,  because  it  dreads  mortification  or 
humiliation,  let  this  itself  be  a new  recommendation 
for  thee  to  be  silent,  that  thou  mayst  overcome  ill- 
ordered  nature. 


4io 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


5.  Doubtless,  the  enemy  of  thy  salvation  and 
perfection, — who  is  ever  roaming  about  seeking 
whom  to  insnare, — will  draw  near  to  thee,  and  sug- 
gest numerous,  troublesome,  and  plausible  things: 
but  do  not  so  much  as  hearken  to  his  suggestions; 
yea,  turn  away  thy  mind  from  him,  or  say  to  him 
with  scorn:  Begone,  Satan;  for  it  is  better  to  fol- 
low the  divine  Saviour,  who  goes  before  and  shows 
a safe  and  secure  way,  than  to  leave  the  company 
of  Jesus,  to  search  out  another  uncertain  and  dan- 
gerous road. 

Perhaps,  also,  some  one  will  ask  thee:  Answerest 
thou  nothing  to  the  things  which  are  objected  to 
thee  by  these  persons?  Neither  do  thou,  My  Child, 
make  any  reply  to  this  question,  but  imitate  Me, 
and  be  in  like  manner  silent. 

If  they  insist:  Seest  thou  not  that  thy  despised 
name,  the  edification  of  thy  scandalized  neighbor, 
the  honor  of  insulted  virtue,  God’s  glory  itself,  de- 
mand of  thee,  that  thou  do  justify  thyself?  Believe 
them  not,  Child,  it  is  not  so. 

If  at  any  time  circumstances  appeared  to  require 
that  I should  speak  in  My  own  justification,  it  was 
doubtless  then,  when  I remained  silent;  they  did 
not,  however,  require  it;  for  had  they  so  required, 
I would  have  spoken. 

6.  Let  the  matter  rest  therefore,  My  Child,  and 
intrust  it  wholly  to  Me,  that,  in  the  wisdom  and 
goodness  of  My  Heart,  I may  do  that  which  is  best 
for  Me  and  for  thee. 

Do  thou,  meanwdiile,  suffer  with  Me  in  silence 
and  patience.  I know  the  accuser  and  the  accused, 
the  judge  and  him  that  is  judged, — him  that  hum- 
bles and  him  that  is  humbled: — I Myself  will  re- 


CHAPTER  XI. 


4II 

pay,  at  the  proper  time,  and  give  to  each  according 
to  his  works. 

That  ihou  mayst  the  better  persevere,  frequently 
call  to  mind,  with  what  feeling  of  pain  I Myself 
endured  greater  humiliations;  with  how  courageous 
a mind,  and  how  generous  a Heart  I bore  them  for 
love  of  thee:  and  thou  wilt  surely  not  refuse  to 
love  Me  in  return,  who  loved  thee  so  much;  nor  to 
undergo  lesser  humiliations  for  the  sake  of  My  love. 

Do  not  fear  confusion:  embrace  it  with  a noble 
heart;  it  will  not  lower  thee;  it  will  not  harm  thee; 
on  the  contrary,  it  will  elevate  thee,  make  thee  alike 
to  Me; — it  will  adorn  thee  with  merit  and  sanctity, 
it  will  replenish  thee  with  the  sweetest  unction  of 
consolation. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O most  sweet  and 
loving  Jesus!  have  pity  on  me  and  help  me.  For 
behold!  because  I am  still  lukewarm  in  Thy  love, 
and  imperfect  in.  humility,  I find  my  heart  ever 
ready  to  grow  indignant,  and  my  mouth  prepared 
to  justify  myself,  whenever  anything  displeasing  is 
laid  to  my  charge. 

And  what  is  worse, — nor  can  I confess  it  without 
shame, — often  do  I find  myself  inclined  to  seek 
excuses  for  real  faults;  and,  how  just  soever  the 
imputations  may  be,  I am  ever  moved  to  defend,  or 
at  least  to  extenuate,  the  defects  attributed  to  me. 

Hence  it  appears,  O Lord  my  God,  how  great  a 
sway  the  world  still  exercises  over  me,  since  I am 
more  anxious  to  be  approved  by  men,  than  to  be 
assimilated  to  Thee:  yea,  and  how  great  a per- 
verseness is  still  lurking  within  me,  since  I am  de- 
sirous of  being  considered  innocent,  whilst  I know 
myself  to  be  guilty. 


412 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 

Woe  is  me!  When  at  last  shall  I be  humble? 
when  shall  I begin  to  love  with  a generous  heart? 
I beg  and  beseech  Thee,  Lord,  spare  not  my  pride, 
however  hidden  it  be:  incite  me  by  a fervent  love, 
that,  co-operating  with  Thee,  I may  root  out  that 
curse. 

O Jesus  so  bountiful  to  me!  I indeed  am  willing 
to  follow  Thee,  and  to  bear  with  Thee,  in  silence 
and  resignation,  false  judgments  and  insults:  but 
for  this,  weak  as  I am,  I need  a powerful  grace. 

Strengthen  me,  therefore,  with  Thy  most  potent 
grace;  that,  for  Thy  love,  I may  remain  with  Thee, 
silent  and  patient,  unto  that  end  which  Thou  mayst 
be  willing  to  appoint. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  TEACHES 

US,  HOW  WE  OUGHT  TO  BEAR  PERSONAL  INSULTS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  when  the  tes- 
timony of  them  that  accused  Me  did  not  agree  the 
High-priest,  that  he  might  find  a plea  for  con- 
demning Me,  addressed  Me  again,  saying:  Art 
Thou  the  Christ,  the  Son  of  the  blessed  God?  I 
adjure  Thee  by  the  living  God,  that  Thou  tell  us, 
if  Thou  art  the  Christ,  the  Son  of  God. 

Since  all  things  in  heaven,  in  earth,  and  under 
the  earth,  had  borne  evident  and  superabundant 
witness  to  My  Divinity,  there  was  no  need  of  an- 
swering the  High-priest,  who  was  tempting  Me; 


CHAPTER  XII. 


413 


however,  to  manifest  the  reverence  due  to  the  liv- 
ing and  blessed  God,  My  Father;  to  give  testimony 
to  the  truth,  even  at  the  risk  of  My  life;  to  move 
the  hearts  of  these  wretches,  if,  perhaps,  they  might 
be  willing  to  hearken  to  grace,  I replied:  I am. 
Nevertheless  I say  to  you:  Hereafter  ye  shall  see 
the  Son  of  man  sitting  on  the  right  hand  of  the 
Power  of  God,  and  coming  in  the  clouds  of  heaven. 

My  Child,  had  they  heeded  these  clear  and  sa- 
credly terrific  words,  would  they  not — suddenly 
changed  from  judges  into  suppliants, — have  cast 
themselves  at  My  feet,  imploring  pardon  and  mercy  ? 

But  the  unhappy  High-priest,  with  his  council, 
spurned  both  the  proffered  grace,  and  the  salutary 
warnings.  For  the  wicked  man,  when  he  is  come 
into  the  depth  of  sins,  contemneth. 

2.  Then  the  chief  of  the  priests  rent  his  garments, 
exclaiming:  He  has  blasphemed.  Behold  I now  ye 
have  heard  the  blasphemy.  What  think  ye?  But 
they  all  cried  out  together,  that  I was  guilty  of  death. 

After  this  iniquitous  and  cruel  insult,  at  which 
all  heaven  was  horrified,  behold  I more  atrocious 
and  painful  things  awaited  Me.  For,  as  it  was  now 
late,  the  High-priest  and  his  associates  retired  to 
rest,  and  left  Me  in  the  hands  of  the  rabble,  to  be 
tortured  during  the  remainder  of  the  night. 

Whatsoever  thou  mayst  do,  My  Child,  how  in- 
tently soever  thou  mayst  meditate,  thou  canst  not 
fully  understand  the  sufferings  of  My  Heart  during 
that  saddest  of  nights. 

Then,  Child,  they  spit  in  My  face, — that  face 
whereon  the  Angels  long  to  gaze: — and  they,  that 
held  Me,  vied  with  each  other  to  mock  and  insult 

Me. 


414 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


And,  that  they  might  act  with  more  fieedom, 
they  covered  My  face:  and,  casting  aside  all  re- 
straint, some  buffeted  Me,  others  struck  My  face 
with  the  palms  of  their  hands,  insolently  saying: 
Prophesy  to  us,  O Christ,  who  is  he  that  struck 
Thee?  Others,  in  fine,  uttered  many  other  blas- 
phemous things,  and  heaped  many  indignities  upon 
Me. 

Behold  then,  behold  the  Son  of  God,  as  it  were 
a worm  and  no  man:  the  reproach  of  men,  and  the 
outcast  of  the  people! 

3.  Meanwhile,  My  Child,  I was  like  a lamb  be- 
fore its  shearer,  neither  opening  My  mouth,  nor 
showing  any  sign  of  revenge,  of  anger,  or  impa- 
tience. 

But,  drowning  in  My  Heart  the  intense  sorrows, 
I displayed,  in  look  and  gesture,  an  invincible 
meekness,  in  order  that  My  enemies  themselves, 
struck  with  so  great  an  example  of  forbearance, 
might  be  converted:  and  that  thou,  Child,  being 
thus  encouraged,  mightst  not  refuse  to  imitate  Me 
through  love. 

For  if  I,  the  Son  of  the  living  and  blessed  God, 
endured,  for  love  of  thee,  such  cruel  and  incompre- 
hensible tortures,  is  it  too  much  that,  for  love  of 
Me,  thou  shouldst  bear  some  insulting  word,  some 
ignominious  appellation,  or  some  reproachful  action  ? 

If  thou  art  unwilling,  for  My  sake,  to  undergo 
similar  things, — little,  indeed,  in  comparison  of 
what  I suffered  for  thee, — canst  thou  believe  that 
thou  hast  a true  love  for  Me,  a love  worthy  either 
of  Myself  or  of  a Disciple  of  My  Heart? 

Ask  the  Saints.  Even  the  least  among  them 
will  answer  thee  by  deeds,  glorious  both  to  them- 


CHAPTER  XII. 


415 


selves  and  to  Me.  Assuredly,  those  generous  hearts 
would  have  been  ashamed,  and  would  have  deemed 
their  love  either  of  no  account  or  false,  and  thought 
themselves  undeserving  of  the  special  affection  of 
My  Heart,  had  they  not  lovingly  undergone  the 
humiliations  presented  to  them  by  Me. 

Do  not  say,  that  thou  art  unable  to  endure  such 
humiliations,  because  thou  art  not  a Saint.  For 
thou  art  able,  if  thou  wilt,  with  the  aid  of  My  grace 
— which  shall  not  be  wanting.  If,  then,  thou  dost 
not  undergo  them,  thou  provest  by  the  fact,  not 
indeed  that  thou  art  unable,  but  that  thou  art  not 
really  willing.  If  thou  art  not  a Saint,  act  in  con- 
cert with  grace,  and  willingly  suffer  humiliations, 
and  behold!  thou  wilt  become  a Saint. 

4.  My  Child,  whether  thou  art  walling  or  no( 
so  long  as  thou  livest  among  mortals,  thou  cansi 
not  be  safe  from  every  kind  of  humiliations;  there- 
fore, thou  shouldst  have  thy  heart  ever  in  readi- 
ness, that,  whensoever  any  do  come  upon  thee, 
thou  mayst  forthwith  have  recourse  to  Me  and  im- 
plore My  help. 

Yea,  it  will  happen,  and  even  for  thy  good,  My 
Child,  that  men  do  not  only  oppose,  or  overlook 
thee,  but  even  that,  before  thy  face,  they  provoke 
or  insult  thee.  Then,  if  thou  do  not  come  speed- 
ily to  Me  by  means  of  prayer,  thou  shalt  find  thy- 
self exposed  to  great  trouble  and  danger. 

They  that  are  still  beginners  in  the  interior  life, 
and  little  advanced  in  mortification  of  heart,  are 
easily  disturbed  by  violent  affronts;  because  un- 
subdued nature,  when  an  opportunity  presents  it- 
self, rebels,  and  excites  a great  dread  of  humilia- 
tion, and  a lively  feeling  of  worldly  honor. 


416 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Yet  all  worldly  honor  is  mere  emptiness:  for  it 
rests  not  upon  truth,  but  depends  on  the  voluble 
tongues  of  men,  who  flatter  or  speak  evil  at  pleasure. 

But  to  endure,  by  virtue,  the  humiliation  of  an 
affront,  is  true  glory;  because  it  renders  man  simi- 
lar to  Me,  and  deserves  an  imperishable  diadem. 

5.  The  best  defense  of  honor  is  an  heroic  gene- 
rosity of  heart.  And,  with  men,  is  not  meekness 
or  clemency  of  more  avail  to  protect  or  regain  a 
good  reputation,  than  anger  or  revenge?  The  lat- 
ter betrays  a little  mind,  and  openly  displays  a 
heart  enslaved  to  the  passions:  the  former  proves 
a great  soul,  a noble  heart,  and  claims  perforce  the 
silent  admiration  of  enemies,  in  spite  of  themselves. 

Hence,  even  a pagan  said:  “To  conquer  one’s 
self  . . . not  only  to  raise  an  opponent,  but  even  to 
load  him  with  favors.  . . . Whoso  does  this,  him  I 
do  not  compare  to  the  greatest  men,  but  I judge 
him  most  like  to  God.” 

Upon  these  things,  however,  Child,  I will  that 
thou  shouldst  look  as  secondary  only,  and  that  thou 
shouldst  ascend  higher, — to  supernatural  motives, — 
lest  thou  reap  no  fruit  for  eternity  from  thy  ardu- 
ous efforts  and  painful  sufferings. 

There  are  many  persons  to  whom  worldly  vanity 
is  more  palatable  than  My  example;  and  wrho  pre- 
fer to  be  slaves  of  their  passions,  rather  than  to  be 
assimilated  to  Me. 

Yea,  to  such  a degree  do  some  allow  themselves 
to  be  carried  away  by  their  passions/  that,  when 
calumniated,  they  rather  inflict  death  on  their  own 
soul,  and  expose  themselves  to  the  torments  of 
hell;  than  let  the  offender  go  unpunished,  or  gener- 
ously to  pardon  the  injury  of  a moment. 


CHAPTER  XII. 


417 


Woe  to  men  endowed  with  divine  faith  who  live 
worse  than  the  heathen,  guided  by  reason  alone! 

Unhappy  men!  they  shall  see  at  last  how  fool- 
ishly, how  wickedly  they  are  acting,  who, — when 
an  opportunity  is  given  them  of  appeasing  God,  of 
expiating  their  sins,  of  gaining  merits,  instead  of 
so  doing, — provoke  God  to  wrath,  heap  up  sins, 
and  aggravate  the  torments  they  shall  have  to  un- 
dergo. 

6.  The  more  courageous  any  one  is  to  conquer 
himself,  and  the  more  numerous  and  difficult  the 
victories  he  gains,  the  stronger  shall  he  become 
against  himself,  and  the  more  easy  and  fruitful 
shall  he  render  future  victories. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  cheer  up  thy  courage: 
overcome  thyself,  that  thou  mayst  ascend  to  Me, 
that  thou  mayst  follow  Me.  By  this  do  thou  judge 
thy  virtue,  the  sincerity  of  thy  love  for  Me:  by 
this  do  thou  distinguish  whether  thou  art  a true 
Disciple  of  My  Heart. 

Mark  this  well:  if,  in  order  to  follow  the  divine 
Will,  thou  dost  not  go  counter  to  the  repugnance 
of  nature;  even  shouldst  thou  work  miracles, 
shouldst  thou  daily  soar  off  into  ecstasy,  know, 
that  all  thy  piety  is  nothing  more  than  simple  de- 
lusion. 

Be  generous  and  follow  Me,  thy  Leader,  and 
Protector,  and  Comforter:  care  not  for  what  men 
may  do  to  thee,  or  what  may  be  the  feeling  of  re- 
bellious nature. 

If  thy  heart  does  not  reproach  thee,  when,  with 
a meek  and  lowly  heart,  thou  endurest  wrongs 
done,  have  thou  confidence,  My  Child;  for  thou 
hast  a sign  of  My  grace  present  and  abiding  in 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


418 

thee.  For  a representation  of  fire  burns  not; 
neither  does  a mere  simulation  of  love  thus  suffer. 

7.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  God  of 
supreme  Majesty!  truly  incomprehensible  is  the 
excess  of  Thy  humiliations:  incomprehensible  the 
excess  of  Thy  love. 

Every  knee  bends  before  Thee  in  heaven,  in 
earth,  and  in  hell:  and  behold!  Thou  art  over- 
whelmed by  the  insults  of  fiend-like  men,  Thou  art 
sated  with  revilings! 

0 Jesus,  truly  meek  and  humble  of  Heart!  for, 
like  a lamb  in  the  midst  of  wolves,  cruelly  torn  to 
pieces,  Thou  desirest,  by  a miracle  of  meekness,  to 
move,  convert,  save  even  them!  Woe  is  my  heart, 
if,  after  such  things,  it  refuses  to  humble  itself,  or 
desires  to  avenge  any  wrong  whatsoever.  Fop  if  it 
is  unwilling  to  yield  to  so  great  an  example  and  to 
so  great  a love  of  its  God,  so  humbled  for  its  sake, 
what  can  it  expect,  if  not  the  rigor  of  justice? 

1 entreat  Thee,  Lord  God,  righteous  Judge  and 
Retributer,  enter  thou  not  into  judgment  with  me, 
but  compassionately  forgive  me  whatsoever  I have 
done  wrong  through  anger  or  revenge. 

Behold,  now,  in  Thy  presence,  most  sweet  Jesus, 
I lay  aside  and  offer  up  forever,  in  spite  of  the 
feelings  of  nature,  every  desire  of  wrathful  retri- 
bution, of  vengeance,  of  every  thing  contrary  to 
charity. 

By  whatsoever  is  dear  to  Thee,  I beg  of  Thee,  O 
Lord,  favorably  accept  this  sacrifice,  which  I unite 
with  the  sufferings  of  Thy  Heart,  and  thus  offer  to 
Thee:  I implore"  Thee,  do  Thou  unite  and  bind 
to  Thee  forever,  by  the  one  bond  of  Thy  divine 
love,  all  them  that  injure  me, 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


419 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

HOW  IT  BEHOOVES  US  TO  IMITATE  THE  MOST 

SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  SO  FAR  AS  TO  BE 

WILLING  TO  BE  CONSIDERED  AS  FOOLS,  WITH 

HIM  AND  FOR  HIS  SAKE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — When  it  was  morning, 
My  Child,  behold!  all  the  chiefs  ot  the  priests  and 
the  ancients  of  the  people  returned  to  the  council; 
and  soon  the  whole  multitude,  dragging  Me  in 
chains  through  the  streets,  led  Me  to  Pilate,  a hea- 
then, the  governor  of  Judea. 

They  standing  outside,  with  loud  cries,  called  out 
the  governor,  and  began  to  accuse  Me  before  him 
of  many  and  various  false  crimes. 

But  Pilate,  hearing  that  I was  of  the  jurisdiction 
of  Herod,  king  of  Galilee,  sent  Me  to  him. 

Herod,  another  heathen,  was  rejoiced  at  the  sight 
of  Me:  for  he  had  heard  much  concerning  Me,  and 
hoped  to  see  some  miracle  performed  to  gratify  his 
curiosity. 

But  to  a carnal  man,  who  understands  not  the 
things  of  God, — although  he  himself  put  many 
questions,  and  the  Jews  were  accusing  Me  unceas- 
ingly,— I answered  nothing;  yet,  in  My  silence,  I 
displayed  so  eloquent  a modesty  and  holiness,  that 
he  could  perceive  that  he  was  receiving  a silent  and 
befitting  admonition,  and  that  My  example  might 
move  him  to  conversion. 

However,  this  earthly-minded  person,  abusing  all 
these  graces,  and  not  able  to  understand  why  I did 


420 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


not  defend  Myself, — why  I did  not  seek  to  gain  his 
favor, — attributed  My  conduct  to  stupidity  and 
foolishness. 

Wherefore  Herod  with  his  army  despised  Me ; 
and  put  on  Me  a white  garment,  as  if  I were  a 
madman: — thus  he  mocked  and  insulted  Me. 

Then,  sending  Me  back,  in  the  same  garment,  to 
Pilate,  he  exposed  Me,  as  a simpleton,  to  the  city 
and  the  world. 

2.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord  God!  that 
Thou  shouldst  be  looked  upon  as  a simpleton! 
Spare,  O Lord,  spare  the  dignity  of  Thy  divine 
Person.  Why  dost  Thou  not  hurl  down  Thy  thun- 
derbolts upon  the  sacrilegious  wretches, — that  the 
vileness  of  men  may  not  thus  profane  the  divine 
Majesty? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — O My  Child!  thou  knowest 
neither  My  Heart  nor  thy  own.  The  pride  of  thy 
own  heart  demanded  so  great  a remedy. 

For,  if  thou  darest  to  be  proud,  after  thou  hast 
seen  the  Son  of  God  treated,  for  thy  sake,  as  a mad- 
man and  a simpleton;  what  wouldst  thou  not  do 
without  so  great  an  example  of  Mine?  Would  not 
self-love,  by  its  subtlety,  set  aside  every  precept, 
and  aim  at  the  very  summit  of  pride? 

Wherefore,  from  the  greatness  of  the  remedy, 
learn  the  grievousness  of  the  disease:  and  hence 
measure  thou,  on  the  one  side,  the  abyss  of  thy 
heart’s  misery,  and  on  the  other,  the  depth  of  My 
Heart’s  love. 

Deep  was  calling  on  deep:  the  love  of  My  Heart 
heard  and  willed  that  I should  be  humbled  to  the 
deep,  that  I might  snatch  thee  from  the  abyss. 

Notwithstanding  I felt  an  unutterable  pang  ip 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


421 


My  human  nature,  yet,  for  thy  sake,  I underwent, 
with  a willing  mind,  this  depth  of  humiliation,  in 
the  hope  of  gaining  at  last,  by  so  great  a demon- 
stration of  love,  thy  whole  heart,  of  inflaming  it 
with  the  same  love  and  of  animating  it  with  the 
same  sentiments. 

3.  An  unfathomable  mystery  it  was,  Child,  tnat 
God  Himself  should  appear  among  men  as  foolish! 
a mystery,  which  love  alone  did  work  by  its  excess, 
and  for  which  love  alone  is  able  to  account. 

For  My  Heart,  made  a captive  by  love,  was  ur~ 
ried  onward  by  love,  through  humiliations,  through 
ignominy,  through  reproach,  through  the  appear- 
ance of  madness  itself, — feeling  most  bitterly,  all 
the  while,  the  painfulness  of  shame,  and  yet  will- 
ingly embracing  its  disgrace. 

If  any  one  loves  Me,  he  will  keep  My  Word:  the 
disciple  is  not  above  his  master:  but  every  one 
shall  be  perfect,  if  he  is  as  his  master. 

Thou,  therefore,  My  Child,  if  thou  truly  lovest 
Me,  wilt  not  refuse  to  bear  with  Me  the  name  of 
one  unsound  or  foolish  in  mind, — whensoever  I 
suffer  thee  to  be  distinguished  by  such  an  appella- 
tion. 

It  is  not,  indeed,  lawful  that,  of  thyself,  thou 
shouldst  give  cause  for  aught  of  the  kind:  but  to 
suffer  that  others  take  occasion  so  to  do;  or  to  de- 
sire that,  without  offending  God,  an  occasion  may 
be  given,  to  be  accounted  silly  or  foolish,  for  My 
sake,  is  truly  an  heroic  virtue  and  a very  great  per- 
fection. 

4.  Be  ready,  Child,  to  appear,  in  some  manner, 
foolish  to  men;  for,  in  whatever  condition  thou 
mayst  live,  thou  shalt  be  sometimes  considered 


422 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


such,  if  thou  art  willing  to  be  a perfect  Disciple  oi 
My  Heart. 

A life  interior  and  devout,  not  merely  in  name, 
but  also  in  fact,  cannot  be  accounted  otherwise  than 
as  a kind  of  folly  by  the  votaries  of  the  world’s 
opinion. 

For  how,  otherwise  than  foolish,  must  it  appear 
to  them,  to  despise  the  present  advantages  of  the 
world  in  the  hope  of  future  blessings:  to  love  pov- 
erty, and  keep  the  affections  disengaged  from  the 
things  of  earth;  to  submit  the  will  and  judgment 
to  others,  even  when  inferior  to  thee  in  virtue  and 
science;  to  mortify  unceasingly  the  senses  of  the 
body;  without  necessity,  to  seek  no  reparation  for 
injury;  to  love  enemies  in  sincerity  of  heart;  to 
love  humiliations,  and  esteem  them  advantages? 

Come,  then,  My  Child,  be  comforted,  and  with  a 
great  heart  and  willing  mind  endure  all  things  with 
Me. 

For  behold!  by  the  disposition  of  My  Providence, 
what  thou  undertakest  will,  sometimes,  have  no  suc- 
cess, and  this  will  be  attributed  to  thy  silliness; 
others,  however,  will  meet  with  success  in  the  same 
undertaking,  and  the  greater  it  be,  the  more  silly 
thou  shalt  appear. 

When  accused,  reprimanded,  or  ridiculed,  thou 
wilt  be  silent,  and  thou  wilt  be  looked  upon  as 
stupid  by  them  that  know  not  the  exquisite  wis- 
dom of  My  Heart. 

When  thou  disregardest  opportunities  of  seeking 
thy  own  advantage,  in  order  to  promote  My  inter- 
ests, thou  shalt  appear  to  many  as  devoid  of  com- 
mon sense. 

If  intent  on  dying  to  thyself  in  order  to  live  for 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


423 


lie  alone,  thou  shalt  be  censured  by  some  as  be- 
ing feeble-minded  through  indiscretion,  yea,  also, 
through  false  piety. 

These  and  similar  things  shall  befall  thee,  Child, 
not  only  from  them  that  show  themselves  votaries 
of  the  world,  but,  sometimes,  from  those  that  make 
profession  of  a virtuous  life,  or  even  of  the  religious 
state;  and  who,  as  they  possess  not  My  interior 
Spirit,  love,  indeed,  the  virtues  whereby  they  may 
please  themselves  and  others,  but  relish  not  My 
afflictions,  My  ignominy,  My  humiliations. 

By  them  to  whom  the  excess  of  My  humiliations 
is  a stumbling-block  in  practice — thou  shalt  oft- 
times  be  treated  most  harshly,  and  shalt  be  made 
to  feel  it  most  keenly. 

5.  Do  not  lose  courage,  nor  be  thou  dejected  in 
heart,  My  Child,  whosoever  be  the  persons  by  whom 
thou  art  dealt  with  in  this  manner:  on  the  con- 
trary, cheer  up  and  rejoice:  bear  it  at  least  with 
patience,  if  thou  canst  not  yet  do  so  with  glad- 
ness. 

Is  it  not  better  to  be  considered  foolish  with 
Me  than  to  be  deemed  wise  by  men  alone? 

Verily,  verily,  whosoever  is  willing,  for  My  sake, 
to  be  looked  upon  as  foolish  in  this  world,  shall 
receive  in  return  a hundred-fold  blessings  in  this 
life,  and  unfading  glory  in  the  life  everlasting. 

These  results  did  the  Saints  experience,  and  they 
found  more  and  better  things  than  they  had  under- 
stood or  had  dared  to  expect.  Do  thou,  also,  My 
Child,  make  the  experiment,  and  thou  shalt  meet 
the  same  reward. 

6.  This  is  the  highest  wisdom,  which  the  world 
and  its  votaries  neither  do  nor  can  know;  but 


424 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


which  the  meek  and  humble  Disciples  of  My  Heart 
understand  and  relish. 

If  thou  lovest  this  teaching  of  My  Heart,  if  thou 
actest  by  its  spirit;  well  done,  Child,  wrell  done; 
be  glad  and  rejoice;  because  thou  art  become  most 
like  to  Me. 

It  is  certainly  a most  weighty  matter:  but  do 
thou  lighten  it  by  love;  and  to  cheer  thee  on,  call 
to  mind  the  speedy  end  thereof,  and  the  everlasting 
reward  in  heaven, — where,  after  a short  time,  thou 
shalt  be  with  Me,  and  where  thou  shalt  shine  with 
so  much  the  greater  honor  before  the  angels  and 
Saints,  with  how  much  the  heavier  weight  of  hu- 
miliations thou  hast  been  pressed  down  before 
men. 

These  things  have  I spoken,  Child  of  My  Heart, 
that,  when  they  shall  come  to  pass,  thou  mayst 
have  recourse  to  Me;  that,  in  Me,  thou  mayst  pos- 
sess peace  and  consolation;  that,  with  Me,  thou 
mayst  persevere. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — I confess  to  Thee, 
O Jesus,  most  kind  Father;  who  hast  hidden  these 
things  from  the  wise  and  prudent  of  this  world, 
and  hast  revealed  them  to  the  little  and  lowly  Dis- 
ciples of  Thy  Heart.  Yea,  Father;  for  so  has  it 
seemed  good  in  Thy  sight. 

As  much  as  I can,  I embrace  them  with  my  heart, 
desirous,  above  all  things,  to  know  and  love  Thee, 
most  sweet  Jesus,  Thee  treated,  for  love  of  me,  as  a 
madman. 

Too  late,  alas!  too  late  have  I known  this  sublime 
mystery;  too  late  have  I embraced  this  supernal 
wisdom,  which  taught  and  formed  the  Saints. 

Grant  me  grace,  O most  compassionate  Jesus, 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


425 

that,  as  I desire,  forgetful  of  me  and  mindful  of 
Thee,  I may  be  carried  forward  after  Thee,  by  love, 
that  I may  follow  Thee  by  love,  even  so  as  to  appear 
with  Thee,  if  it  please  Thee  so  to  allow,  silly,  stupid, 
foolish. 

O Jesus,  infinite  sweetness!  with  Thee  all  be- 
comes sweet!  to  be  like  Thee  is  supreme  felicity 
upon  earth,  and  the  most  certain  oledge  of  heaven. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

HOW,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  SHOULD  BE  WILLING  TO 

BE  PLACED  BELOW  ALL. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus.— Being  led  back  to  the 
residence  of  the  governor,  I stood  before  him,  who 
knew  that  through  envy,  I had  been  delivered  up 
by  the  priests  and  Pharisees. 

As  Pilate  had  no  doubt  of  My  innocence,  he  was 
desirous  of  freeing  Me,  if  he  could  effect  this  with- 
out displeasing  the  Jews.  Wherefore,  he  bethought 
himself  of  an  expedient,  which  showed  the  base 
weakness  of  his  soul,  and  covered  Me  with  the 
utmost  disgrace. 

On  the  festive  day,  the  governor  was  accustomed 
to  release  to  the  people  one  of  the  prisoners,  whom- 
soever they  chose.  At  that  time  he  held  a notori- 
ous prisoner  who  was  called  Barabbas. 

Now,  Barabbas  was  a robber,  who,  for  a sedition 
raised  in  the  city,  and  for  a murder,  had  been  cast 
into  prison. 


426 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Pilate,  then, — thinking  that  I,  the  benefactor  of 
all,  a lover  of  peace,  the  restorer  of  life,  should  be 
preferred  to  this  man, — said  to  the  assembled 
chiefs  of  the  priests,  to  the  magistrates  and  the 
people:  It  is  a custom  that,  at  the  Passover,  I 
release  one  to  you:  which  of  the  two,  therefore, 
will  ye  that  I release  to  you,  Barabbas  or  Jesus? 

But,  at  the  instigation  of  the  chief-priests,  the 
whole  multitude  exclaimed:  Not  this  one  but 
Barabbas. 

Consider,  Child,  how  this  struck  My  Heart: 
how  deeply  it  affected  the  same;  how  it  tore  It 
asunder. 

Contemplate  Me  standing  behind  Barabbas  in 
the  sight  of  all:  and  see  how  I am  treated  by  the 
highest  and  the  lowest,  as  the  least  of  men. 

This  disgraceful  rejection,  although  it  ovei  «■ 
whelmed  My  Heart  with  a feeling  of  pain,  I suffered 
willingly,  both  that  I might  save  from  the  everlast- 
ing rejection  of  the  reprobate,  as  far  as  in  Me  lay, 
the  wretched  Barabbas,  thyself,  My  Child,  and  the 
whole  world;  and  that  I might  leave  thee  an  ex- 
ample full  of  consolation. 

2.  Do  not,  then,  take  it  amiss,  but  endure  it  pa- 
tiently and  resignedly  with  Me,  if  thou  art  placed 
beneath  others. 

What  wonder  if  thou,  who  art  dust  and  naught 
of  thyself,  sufferest  thyself  to  be  placed,  for  My 
sake,  below  others,  when  I,  the  Lord  and  God  of 
all,  allowed  Myself  for  thee  to  be  cast  beneath  the 
meanest  of  mortals? 

Since  the  time  thou  didst  sin,  even  venially, 
against  the  divine  Majesty,  thou  didst  truly  deserve 
to  be  placed,  not  only  below  men,  bu\  even  below 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


427 


irrational  beings,  which  have  not  injured  or  offended 
the  divine  Majesty. 

Wherefore,  Child,  when  I permit  thee  to  be 
put  beneath  others,  be  satisfied  there,  as  in  a place 
fit  for  thee. 

And  if  thou  deemest  thyself  to  be  placed  lower 
than  is  just,  do  not,  pray,  examine  too  minutely 
the  merits  of  others,  nor  thy  own:  but  consider 
My  example,  and  descend  thou,  in  thy  heart,  still 
lower, — knowing  that  the  nearer  thou  comest  to 
Me,  by  humiliations,  the  nearer  also  thou  shalt  be 
to  Me  in  glory. 

How,  indeed,  couldst  thou  be  a true  Disciple  of 
My  Heart,  if  thou  desirest  to  be  the  first,  where  I 
Myself  was  the  last?  Should  the  Disciple  go  be- 
fore the  Master.  Is  it  not  befitting  in  a Disciple 
to  follow  his  Master? 

Wherefore,  follow  thou  Me,  and  be  willingly  the 
last  with  Me.  Behold!  how  many  there  are  in 
the  world  who  are  forced  to  occupy  the  last  place; 
and  because  they  do  it  against  their  will,  therefore 
they  do  it  without  comfort,  without  merit!  Thou, 
My  Child,  stay  cheerfully  with  Me,  and  thou  shalt 
have  no  cause  for  regret. 

3.  Happy  thou,  if,  for  love  of  Me,  thou  art  will- 
ing, of  thy  own  accord,  to  be  placed  behind  all! 
For,  if  thou  sufferest  after  this  manner,  thou  wilt 
sanctify  thyself  by  those  things  which  shall  doubtless 
befall  thee. 

Others  shall  be  sometimes  exalted,  and  placed 
like  lights  upon  the  candlestick:  thou  shalt  be 
overlooked,  and  put  under  the  bushel. 

What  others  ask,  they  shall  readily  obtain,  and 
they  shall  be  thought  to  deserve  it:  what  thou 


428 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


askest  shall  appear  unreasonable,  or  thou  shalt  be 
deemed  undeserving  of  the  object. 

What  others  say  shall  be  looked  upon  as  well- 
suited,  or  even  as  decisive:  what  thou  sayest  shall 
seem  unsuitable  or  absurd. 

Others  shall  complain  at  pleasure,  and  many  will 
sympathize  with  them:  thou,  when  suffering  under 
pains  or  hardships,  if,  forced  by  necessity,  thou 
darest  to  speak,  shalt  be  thought  disturbed  in  thy 
imagination. 

The  defects  of  others  shall  be  dignified  with  an 
honorable  name:  thy  virtues  shall  be  esteemed  as 
the  effects  of  a weak  mind. 

Others  they  shall  humor:  but  thee  they  shall  put 
down;  and  plead  as  an  excuse,  that  thou  dost  not 
only  deserve  this,  but  that  thou  standest  in  need 
of  it. 

Not  a few  such  things,  My  Child,  whereby  thou 
mayst  be  placed  below  others,  shall  befall  thee: 
and,  when  they  occur,  nature  will  be  grievously  af- 
flicted. But  strengthen  thy  courage,  and,  in  spite 
of  nature,  continue  with  Me,  preferring  to  be  the 
last  with  Me,  rather  than  the  first  without  Me. 

Do  not  only  gladly  suffer  that  thou  be  placed 
behind  others,  but  wherever  thou  art,  and  canst  do 
so  lawfully,  take  the  lowest  place  for  thyself : 
there,  Child,  there  thou  shalt  find  Me,  there  thou 
shalt  have  Me  with  thee. 

If  thou  do  this,  He  that  raises  the  lowly  will 
one  day  say  to  thee:  Friend,  go  up  higher.  And  then 
thou  shalt  have  glory  before  the  Angels  and  Saints 

4.  If  the  dignity  of  thy  state  or  office  elevate  thee 
above  the  rest,  let  the  humility  of  thy  heart,  in  a 
becoming  manner,  place  thee,  for  love  of  Me,  below 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


429 

the  same.  Thus  thou  wilt  be  enabled  to  imitate 
Me, — to  whom  all  power  is  given, — merit  much  for 
thyself,  and  be  more  useful  to  others. 

Neither  do  thou  imagine  that  this  kind  of  con- 
duct is  in  any  wise  hurtful  to  thy  authority.  For, 
although  it  is  proper  and  necessary  that  a Superior 
do  uphold  his  authority,  he  cannot  better  do  this 
than  by  that  humble  charity  which  does  not  merely 
hold  the  outward  man  in  submission,  but  which 
also  captivates  the  heart  itself,  keeps,  and  fills  it 
with  love,  confidence,  and  every  good  disposition. 

Do  not  reserve  for  thyself  the  greater  and  more 
showy  performances,  and  leave  to  thy  subjects  what 
is  of  less  importance,  and  more  humble:  on  the  con- 
trary, as  much  as  possible,  reserve  the  latter  for 
thyself,  and  assign  the  former  to  thy  inferiors. 
Thus  thou  wilt  follow  my  example,  gain  the  good 
will  of  subjects,  and  stimulate  their  courage. 

By  so  doing  thou  shalt  better  accomplish  more 
things  by  means  of  thy  subjects  than  thou  canst  do 
by  thyself:  and  whilst  thou  art  placed  over  others, 
thou  shalt,  as  their  companion,  yea  as  their  min- 
ister, be  seen  wTith  Me. 

5.  As  much  as  it  is  left  to  thee,  choose  rather  to 
be  subject  than  to  have  command:  nay  more,  where- 
soever thou  mayst  be  placed,  shun  every  word  and 
sign  which  may  display  thy  worth,  talents,  or  other 
gifts  and  accomplishments, — none  of  which  things 
should  be  made  subjects  of  vanity. 

Do  not  meddle  in  the  affairs  of  others,  as  if  thou 
wTouldst  better  or  control  them : neither  do  thou 
show  thyself  ready,  unless  virtue  demand  it,  to 
give  advice,  as  if  thou  wert  skillful. 

Suffer  willingly  that  others  excel  thee  in  science 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


*3° 

and  other  matters,  even  in  outward  virtues:  do 
thou  carefully  what  thou  canst,  for  the  rest  rely 
upon  the  divine  good  pleasure,  and  glory  with  Me 
in  thy  humiliations. 

Know  thou  that  only  then  thou  hast  attained  to 
true  holiness,  when,  for  love  of  Me,  thou  rejoicest, 
that,  in  fact,  or  by  efficacious  affection,  thou  art 
with  Me  in  the  lowest  place. 

But,  if  as  yet  thou  art  unable  to  attain  to  this  so 
perfectly:  pray,  Child,  and  use  thy  endeavors;  and 
thou  shalt  come  to  it  afterward. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord  God,  my 
Saviour,  how  divine  is  Thy  Life!  how  sublime  the 
doctrine  of  Thy  Heart’s  example!  Who  can  un- 
derstand it  fully,  except  whomso  Thou  teachest 
inwardly  by  the  unction  of  Thy  Spirit? 

Alas,  Lord  Jesus!  hitherto  I have  been  without 
understanding:  until  now  I have  aspired  to  the 
highest  place,  although  I beheld  Thee  in  the  lowest. 

Wretched  me!  how  greatly  have  I erred!  I left 
Thee  alone  in  Thy  humiliations,  and,  blind  and 
alone,  I withdrew  far  from  Thee:  I estranged  my- 
self far  from  Thy  Heart. 

Vain  and  wayward,  I strove  to  excel  among  men, 
and  to  make  for  myself  some  name,  whilst  my  con- 
science bore  witness,  that,  on  account  of  my  sins. — 
whereby  I placed  Thee,  O Jesus!  not  only  behind 
Barabbas,  but,  by  an  excess  of  malice  and  ungrate- 
fulness, behind  the  very  demon, — I deserved  to  be 
cast  beneath  the  feet  of  all,  and  to  be  filled  with 
confusion  before  heaven  and  earth. 

I am  unworthy,  Lord  Jesus,  to  be  with  Thee, 
even  in  the  last  place.  But  since,  in  the  infinite 
goodness  of  Thy  Heart,  Thou  hast  so  merciful 


CHAPTER  XV. 


43 1 


reclaimed  me,  I trust  Thou  wilt  kindly  give  me 
a place  near  Thee. 

Thou  hast  opened  my  eyes  to  see  my  error,  Thou 
hast  moved  my  heart  to  make  me  love  Thy  com- 
pany, even  amidst  humiliations:  grant,  I beseech 
Thee,  grant  me  grace,  give  me  courage,  that,  for 
love  of  Thee,  I may  willingly  persevere  therein 
with  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

HOW,  BY  VOLUNTARY  MORTIFICATIONS,  IT  BEHOOVES 

US  TO  FOLLOW  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF 

JESUS  SCOURGED. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — Behold!  My  Child,  Pilate, 
seeing  that,  contrary  to  what  he  expected,  Barabbas 
was  preferred  to  Me  by  the  Jews,  stood  amazed; 
but,  believing  Me  nevertheless  innocent,  he  was 
still  anxious  to  release  Me,  and  at  the  same  time, 
to  gratify  the  people. 

Seeking  to  serve  two  masters, — on  the  one  hand 
to  please  men,  on  the  other  to  satisfy  his  conscience, 
—he  tried  another  means,  full  of  injustice  and  cru- 
elty, in  order  to  rescue  Me. 

For  he  resolved  to  place  Me  in  such  a condition 
that  men,  if  they  still  possessed  human  feelings, 
should  not  be  able  to  look  upon  Me,  without  being 
moved  to  commiseration. 

I find  no  cause,  said  he,  in  this  man:  I will, 
therefore,  chastise  and  release  Him.  And  imme- 
diately he  ordered  Me  to  be  seized  and  cruelly 
scourged. 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


43  2 

And  behold!  forthwith  the  soldiers  tied  Me  to  a 
pillar:  and  now  they  lacerate  My  Flesh  with  con- 
tinuous stripes  and  countless  wounds:  they  vie  suc- 
cessively with  each  other  to  multiply  the  blows  and 
increase  My  torments. 

Lo ! blood  streams  on  every  side ; it  crimsons 
everything;  it  besprinkles  the  very  scourgers. 
These,  mad  with  rage,  exert  themselves  more 
fiercely,  tear  oh  the  flesh  with  their  lashes  and 
scatter  it  around! 

Let  us  cut  Him  off,  they  shout,  let  us  cut  Him 
off  from  the  land  of  the  living,  and  let  His  name 
be  remembered  no  more! 

At  this  heartrending  sight,  the  heavens  were 
moved:  the  Angels  themselves  stood  astounded  at 
the  excessive  love  of  My  Heart  for  men. 

2.  Thou,  My  Child,  ponder  thou  attentively  and 
compassionately  these  torments  of  Mine;  and  learn 
how  grievous,  how  horrifying,  are  the  sins  of  the 
flesh,  which  required  such  an  atonement.  Do  not 
these  wounds  cry  aloud  upon  all,  that,  at  least  through 
pity,  they  should  cease  to  gratify  the  desires  of  the 
flesh,  and  not  continue  to  heap  up  new  sorrows  ? 

Learn,  also,  how  great  is  the  love  of  My  Heart, 
whereby  I,  the  innocent,  of  My  own  accord,  under- 
went the  punishments  of  the  guilty.  Yea,  Child, 
love,  the  ardent  desire  of  saving  all,  brought  it 
about,  that  with  all  My  Heart  I gave  My  immacu- 
late Body  to  the  strikers,  and  willingly  bore  the 
appalling  tortures  of  the  scourging. 

Learn,  too,  how  thou  oughtest  to  treat  that  body 
of  thine,  which,  conceived  in  sin,  grown  up  amidst 
its  passions,  is  ever  prone  to  evil. 

See,  what  the  Saints  did  learn:  observe,  in  what 


CHAPTER  XV. 


433 


manner  they  mortified  their  members,  how  they 
afflicted  their  senses. 

How  many  among  them,  who  never  lost  their 
first  innocence,  yet  never  ceased  to  wage  a fierce 
war  against  their  flesh,  who  subdued  their  frail 
body,  and,  by  every  kind  of  mortification,  brought 
it  under  perfect  subjection! 

Their  hearts  were  like  to  My  Heart,  and,  there- 
fore, they  produced  similar  fruits  in  their  body. 
Neither  would  they  at  all  have  thought  themselves 
happy,  unless  herein  also  they  had  in  some  way 
conformed  themselves  to  Me. 

3.  Wherefore,  Child,  even  if  thou  art  just,  mor- 
tify thy  flesh,  both  that  it  may  not  rise  up  and  de- 
stroy thee;  and,  especially,  that  thou  mayst  assimi- 
late thyself  to  Me,  and  thus  sanctify  thyself. 

Many  there  are,  lovers  of  self,  sensual  men,  al- 
though unwilling  to  be  considered  such,  who  do  not 
relish  the  mortifying  of  the  flesh,  and  who  are  ever 
ready  with  some  pretense  to  exempt  themselves 
from  mortification. 

Foolish  and  deluded  souls!  Verily,  verily,  un- 
less ye  do  penance,  ye  shall  all  likewise  perish.  If 
any  one,  though  he  seem  a Saint  or  an  Angel,  say 
the  contrary,  let  him  be  anathema. 

Remember  what  the  Spirit  says:  “They  that  are 
Christ’s,  have  crucified  their  flesh  with  its  vices  and 
concupiscences.” 

The  prudence  of  the  flesh  is  death:  the  prudence 
of  the  spirit,  life,  and  peace,  and  joy. 

Wherefore,  if  ye  live  according  to  the  flesh,  ye 
shall  die:  but  if  by  the  Spirit  ye  mortify  the  deeds 
of  the  flesh,  ye  shall  live,  and  enjoy  peace  and  joy 
of  heart. 


434 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


4.  My  Child,  rouse  thyself  by  the  spirit  of  love, 
v/hereby  My  Heart  submitted  to  the  cruel  scourg- 
ing, and  thou  shalt  find  mortification  easy,  and  ex- 
perience its  sweet  and  saving  effects. 

There  is  no  time  when,  nor  place  where,  thou 
canst  not,  occasionally,  practice  the  mortification  of 
some  one  of  the  senses. 

Besides,  wheresoever  thou  art,  shouldst  thou  not 
be  more  eager  to  mortify  thy  body,  for  the  sake  of 
following  Me  and  gaining  heaven,  than  sinners  are 
so  to  gratify  their  flesh  as  to  renew  My  flagellation 
and  to  deserve  for  themselves  the  pains  of  hell? 

Come  then,  My  Child,  have  no  fear.  Voluntary 
mortification  is  the  way  of  life,  of  freedom,  of  tran- 
quillity, of  virtue,  of  sanctity. 

Blessed  are  they  that  walk  in  this  way!  their 
happiness  is  known  only  to  them  that  have  tried  the 
same. 

5.  He  that  does  not  mortify  himself  in  things  in- 
different and  lawful,  will  hardly  mortify  himself  in 
those  that  are  necessary  and  unlawful. 

If  thou  wilt  learn  to  mortify  thyself  in  what  is 
great,  constantly  mortify  thyself  in  what  is  small. 

Now  the  curiosity  of  the  eyes,  now  the  eagerness 
of  hearing  things  new;  again  the  desire  of  utter- 
ing what  is  useless,  again  the  wish  of  smelling  what 
is  pleasant;  then  the  inclination  to  experience  that 
which  flatters  the  touch,  again  the  greediness  to  eat 
or  drink  without  a sufficient  reason;  and  again  the 
intention  of  doing  that  whereby  others  may  be  in- 
commoded; these,  and  similar  things,  may  be  a 
matter  of  frequent,  nay,  in  some  manner,  of  con- 
tinual mortification. 

These,  My  Child,  will  be  for  thee  faithful  guar- 


CHAPTER  XV. 


435 


dians  of  innocence:  these  will  be  aliments  of  di- 
vine love:  these  will  preserve  fervor  in  thy  heart: 
these  will  be  unceasing  sacrifices  offered  upon  the 
altar  of  the  inner  sanctuary,  which,  united  to  the 
sacrifices  of  My  Heart,  shall  forever  mount  up  be- 
fore the  throne  of  the  Most  High  as  an  odor  of 
sweetness. 

These  things  little,  but  frequently  occurring 
every  day,  are  useful  and  proper  for  all,  for  the 
young  and  the  old;  for  the  weak  and  the  strong; 
for  those  beginning,  for  those  advancing,  for  those 
perfect:  nor  can  any  one  exempt  himself  from  them 
without  the  disgraceful  mark  of  lukewarmness. 

In  these  there  is  no  risk  of  health  for  any  one; 
for  these  there  is  no  need  of  special  permission: 
these  are  safe  and  wholesome  for  all. 

6.  But  all  cannot  equally  undertake  great  mor- 
tifications : for  all  have  not  the  same  need,  nor  the 
same  oodily  strength ; nor,  in  fine,  the  same  vo- 
cation. 

Wherefore,  it  is  advisable  for  each  one  to  lay 
open  his  circumstances  to  a spiritual  director,  to 
decide  with  him  the  measure  of  mortifications,  not 
to  undertake  anything  extraordinary  without  con- 
sulting him,  lest  for  the  appearance  of  a good  he 
lose  a real  good,  or  lest  he  render  himself  unfit  for 
what  is  better. 

Among  mortifications,  those  are  to  be  preferred 
which,  by  their  nature,  are  thought  better  suited  to 
subject  the  senses  to  the  spirit  and  to  grace,  and 
which  dispose  thee  better,  courageously  to  endure 
hardships,  after  My  example. 

But  before  all  others,  those  should  be  embraced 
which  are  prescribed  by  Me,  by  the  Church,  by  Su- 


436 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


periors.  These  are  practiced  with  more  holiness  and 
security  than  those  which  are  undertaken  by  free 
choice:  these  produce  more  plentiful  and  more 
precious  fruits,  since  to  mortification  the  virtue 
and  merit  of  obedience  are  added. 

My  Child,  if  thou  gratefully  rememberest,  how  I 
was  wounded  for  thee,  how  I was  bruised  for  thy 
iniquities,  thou  wilt  apply  thyself,  with  the  Apos- 
tle, to  bear  My  marks  in  thy  body,  and  so  to  live, 
that  My  life  may  be  manifest  in  thine. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O my  Jesus  and 
my  God!  Thou  art  truly  a man  of  sorrows;  for  be- 
hold, I gaze  upon  Thee  scourged,  and  I see  that  Thou 
hast  neither  beauty  nor  comeliness,  as  a leper,  and 
one  stricken,  so  that  there  is  no  sightliness  in  Thee! 

Whence,  alas!  whence  art  Thou  reduced  to  this 
extremity?  I,  a vile  wretch,  have  cruelly  sinned, 
for  which  Thou,  God  Supreme,  atonest  by  stripes 
so  great  and  countless,  by  wounds  so  cruel  and  nu- 
merous. 

O what  a Heart  is  Thine,  Lord  Jesus!  how  great 
the  excess  of  Thy  love,  that  Thou  didst  endure  such 
things  for  me!  O most  loving,  O most  sweet  Jesus! 
how  powerful  a reason  for  trusting  in  Thee,  however 
wretched  I may  be!  how  urging  an  incitement  to 
love  Thee  in  return  with  my  whole  heart! 

But  how  monstrous,  how  horrible  were  my  con- 
duct, if,  whilst  I am  bound  to  requite  Thee  with  a 
grateful  love  for  evermore,  I were  to  renew  Thy 
torments  by  my  sins! 

It  were  better  a thousand  times  here  to  die  be- 
fore Thee,  than  to  become  guilty  of  so  unutterable 
a crime.  Yea,  Lord,  for  love  of  Thee,  I choose 
rather  here  to  expire,  than  to  sin  against  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


437 


That  I may  efficaciously  avoid  this,  grant  me  the 
grace  constantly  to  keep  my  body  in  subjection, 
and  on  all  occasions  to  mortify  my  senses. 

Give  me,  I beseech  Thee,  a fervent  love  for  Thee: 
and  behold  I mortification  will  be  to  me  the  life 
whereby  I live  for  Thee,  follow  Thee,  unceasingly 
worship  Thee,  daily  offer  to  Thee,  now  a sacrifice 
of  praise,  or  thankfulness,  then  a victim  of  some 
feeling  or  inclination,  again  a burnt-offering  of  my 
whole  heart. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

HOW,  FROM  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  SHOULD  LEARN  TO  ENDURE 

BODILY  AILMENTS  AND  PAINS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  after  the 
scourging,  whilst  My  whole  body  was  dripping  with 
blood,  behold  the  soldiers  led  Me  into  the  fore-court 
of  the  governor’s  residence,  and  there  gathered  to- 
gether the  whole  band. 

And  platting  a crown  of  thorns,  they  placed  the 
same  cruelly  upon  My  head,  and  a reed  in  My  right 
hand. 

And  they  came  one  by  one,  and  bending  the  knee 
before  Me,  they  mocked  Me:  and  rising,  they  took 
the  reed  and  struck  My  head  with  the  same,  so  that 
the  points  of  the  thorns,  driven  in  ever  deeper, 
pierced  My  head  on  every  side. 

Now,  Child,  had  My  suffering  come  to  an  un- 
utterable excess;  and  even  to  My  latest  sigh,  as 
long  as  the  crown  remained,  were  they  to  go  on 
with  ever-increasing  violence. 


43^ 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Behold,  I dragged  Myself,  My  limbs  broken,  My 
joints  bruised,  all  My  senses  sickly,  weary,  and, 
through  the  excess  of  pain,  hardly  under  My  control! 

From  the  sole  of  the  foot,  even  to  the  top  of  My 
head,  there  was  in  Me  no  soundness,  neither  within 
nor  without. 

2.  My  Child,  thou  wilt  never  more  perfectly  un- 
derstand these  torments  of  My  Passion,  than  when 
thou  shalt  suffer  similar  ones;  when  thou  feelest 
thy  body  writhing  with  pain,  and  thy  soul  undone 
by  afflictions. 

When  man  is  despoiled  of  fortune,  reputation,  or 
other  external  possessions,  it  is  hard,  indeed,  and 
distressing  to  nature:  but  it  is  much  harder  and 
much  more  distressful  to  be  tortured  by  the  pains 
of  bodily  ailments. 

For  in  these  outward  things,  by  greatness  of 
soul,  with  the  aid  of  grace,  a person  can  raise  him- 
self so  far  as  either  to  forget,  or  not  to  heed,  the 
cause  and  effect  of  his  troubles:  but,  in  bodily  ail- 
ments, he  cannot  avoid  feeling  that  which  he  feels, 
and,  whatsoever  he  may  do,  always  and  everywhere 
he  has  his  aching  self  with  him. 

However,  if  sickness  is  the  greater  pain,  it  pro- 
cures also  greater  advantages  for  him  that  suffers 
rightly. 

Wherefore,  Child,  let  it  be  thy  chief  care  to  en- 
dure the  same  with  a heart  well-disposed,  and  to 
follow  therein,  as  much  as  thou  canst,  the  disposi- 
tions of  My  Heart. 

3.  And  first,  when  thou  feelest  any  indisposition, 
accept  it  as  a dispensation  of  the  love  of  My  Heart, 
and  say,  at  least  interiorly:  Blessed  be  the  Lord, 
because  He  has  visited  His  servant!  And  although 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


439 


thou  feelest  that  thou  dost  so  only  with  difficulty, 
do  not  neglect  it:  for  thou  wilt  thereby  more  easily 
overcome  reluctant  nature,  and  gain  the  more  merit. 

Next,  resign  thyself  to  the  divine  Will,  in  the 
best  manner  thou  art  able:  and  renew  this  holy 
resignation  as  frequently  as  possible,  being  assured 
that  thou  shalt  derive  thence  the  greatest  strength 
and  comfort. 

Afterward,  unite  thy  sufferings  with  Mine,  and 
this  by  repeated  acts,  for  various  ends,  which  thy 
need,  advantage,  or  even  thy  piety  may  require. 

By  this  divine  union,  which  overflows  with  me 
unction  of  grace,  thy  afflictions  will  be  soothed, 
and  will  become  for  thee  lighter  and  sweeter. 

Lastly,  to  help  thee  to  persevere,  and  to  possess 
thy  soul  in  peace,  constantly  withdraw,  so  far  as 
possible,  thy  attention  and  even  thy  thoughts  from 
the  causes  of  thy  sufferings,  and  from  the  suffer- 
ings themselves:  and  direct  thy  mind  to  My  exam- 
ple and  the  unconquerable  patience  of  the  Saints 
and  think  how  boundless,  how  sweet  a reward  thotf 
shalt  obtain  in  heaven,  unless  thou  lose  it  by  vol- 
untary impatience. 

4.  Meanwhile,  Child, — since  thou  needest  much 
grace,  and  canst  of  thyself  do  nothing  profitable, — 
according  to  thy  strength,  persist  in  prayer:  espe- 
cially in  short  and  fervent  aspirations,  addressing 
Me  in  these  or  similar  terms:  Behold,  Lord,  he 
whom  Thou  didst  love  even  to  the  death,  is  sick.  . . . 
Lord,  grant  me  patience.  . . . Give  me  resignation. 
. . . Grant  me  to  be  united  with  Thee  unto  the 
end. 

And,  if  thy  infirmity  increases,  thou  wilt  exhibit 
a conduct  most  worthy  of  a Disciple  of  My  Heart, 


440 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


if  thou  dost  actually  offer  to  Me  thy  body,  as  a liv- 
ing victim,  and  accept  death,  at  a time  and  in  the 
manner,  which  may  be  most  pleasing  to  Me. 

Know,  My  Child,  that,  whatsoever  thou  mayst  do 
to  the  contrary,  thou  shalt  occasionally  be  much 
inclined  to  dejection  of  spirits.  Remember  that 
this  is  the  effect  of  sickly  and  languishing  nature, 
whereby  thou  shouldst  not  at  all  be  made  uneasy. 
Only  take  care  thou  do  not  yield  to  it,  or  indulge 
it  of  thy  own  accord.  For,  by  giving  scope  and 
indulgence  to  the  same,  thou  wouldst  both  increase 
thy  sufferings,  and  render  thy  very  heart  ill-dis- 
posed. 

If  at  any  time  thy  suffering  and  anguish  should 
bring  thee  so  far  as  to  be  hardly  able  to  use  the 
powers  of  thy  soul  with  consciousness,  remain  thou 
quietly  in  My  arms ; neither  do  thou  endeavor, 
with  violence  or  anxiety,  to  excite  within  thee  any 
acts  or  affections,  but  be  satisfied  with  remaining 
calmly  resigned  to  Me. 

Blessed  is  he  that,  in  sickness,  adheres  persever- 
ingly  to  the  saving  divine  Will.  For,  so  long 
as  he  is  united  to  the  divine  good  pleasure,  he 
reposes  upon  My  Heart,  and  all  is  safe. 

My  Child,  do  not  be  despondent  in  mind,  nor 
feel  distressed  on  account  of  the  greatness  or  the 
length  of  thy  sufferings:  remember  that  several  of 
the  Saints  dragged  out  a long  life  amidst  the  pains 
of  sickness,  and  thereby  sanctified  themselves,  be- 
cause they  were  resigned:  and  reflect  that,  however 
great  and  lasting  thy  pain  may  be,  it  is  as  nothing 
compared  to  the  unmeasured  and  ever-enduring  joy, 
whereby  thy  patience  shall  be  rewarded  in  heaven. 

Call  to  mind,  that  My  torments  and  My  martyr- 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


441 


dom  lasted  as  long  as  My  life:  and  remember  that 
I endured  all  this  willingly  for  love  of  thee.  By 
these  things  thou  shalt  be  much  assisted  to  bear 
with  constancy  thy  afflictions,  for  love  of  Me. 

5.  Show  not  thyself  voluntarily  peevish  or  impa- 
tient toward  them  that  take  care  of  thee.  Thy  ill- 
ness will  often  make  them  appear  to  thee  careless 
or  neglectful. 

So  often  as  it  is  needful  or  useful,  thou  mayst 
freely  manifest  with  humility  and  charity,  whatso- 
ever thou  thinkest  is  necessary  or  advantageous  for 
thee.  But,  meanwhile,  thou  shouldst  feel  so  dis- 
posed, that,  whether  thy  desire  be  granted  or  re- 
fused, thou  do  continue  calm  and  resigned. 

Do  thou  patiently  bear,  as  not  the  least  portion 
of  thy  illness,  whatsoever  thou  mayst  have  to  en- 
dure from  them  that  have  care  of  thee.  For,  under 
the  disagreeable  circumstances  wherein  thou  art 
placed,  this  may  have  great  merit. 

6.  Beware,  My  Child,  lest,  under  pretense  of  in- 
firmity, thou  indulge  the  flesh.  Herein  do  many 
err,  who  by  sickness  are  not  only  not  made  better, 
but  rather  worse,  becoming  lovers  of  the  body,  and 
slaves  of  their  passions. 

Give  to  the  body  what  is  due  to  the  body:  but 
neither  in  good  nor  in  ill  health,  neither  in  life  nor 
in  death,  do  thou  minister  food  to  the  inordinate 
propensities  of  the  flesh;  which,  as  in  health,  so 
also  in  sickness  are  dangerous,  and,  therefore,  to  be 
mortified. 

Do  thou,  in  a spirit  of  mortification,  submit  to 
unpleasant  remedies,  and  to  the  use  of  bitter  or  un- 
savory drugs.  This  mortification  is  the  more  pre- 
cious, and  a proof  of  purer  love  for  me,  as  it  is 


442 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


more  irksome  and  farther  removed  from  natural 
inclination. 

7.  Whilst  thou  art  sick,  Child,  do  not  trouble 
thyself  with  desires  of  attending  to  thy  office  or 
employment,  of  laboring  for  thyself  or  others,  of 
performing  works  of  piety;  or,  in  fine,  of  doing 
other  good  things,  which  are  incompatible  with  thy 
infirmity. 

Such  things  serve  for  naught,  except  to  cause  thee 
useless  affliction,  to  disquiet  thee  to  no  good  pur- 
pose, and  to  displease  Me. 

Those  things  I do  not  now  require  of  thee,  My 
Child;  what  I demand  for  the  present  is,  that  thou 
suffer  with  a good  heart,  and  be  resigned  to  the 
divine  Will. 

Do  now  what  I desire  of  thee;  and  leave  all  the 
rest  to  My  Providence,  that  knows  how  to  order 
everything  rightly  without  thee. 

8.  Look  to  it,  My  Child,  that,  when  sick,  thou 
be  not  anxious  to  follow  thy  own  guidance.  For 
it  is  especially  at  this  time  that,  being  blinded, 
thou  wouldst  blindly  lead  thyself  into  some  precipice. 

Hearken  religiously  to  thy  Superiors,  and  suffer 
thyself  to  be  directed  by  Me  through  them.  Honor 
the  physician  for  the  need  thou  hast  of  him,  and 
obey  him  in  simplicity  of  heart. 

Do  not  harm  thyself,  through  negligence  or  care- 
lessness, whilst  thou  art  sick:  but  use  remedies  in 
a reasonable  manner,  praying  God,  from  whom  is 
all  healing,  that,  if  it  be  for  thy  good,  He  may 
deign  to  heal  thee. 

Having  done  so,  how  serious  soever  the  disease 
may  be,  believe  that  it  is  something  advantageous 
for  thee,  since  it  is  the  divine  Will. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


443 


Come,  Child,  be  willingly  a martyr  to  suffering  foi 
My  love,  who,  through  every  excess  of  pains,  am 
become  the  Chief  of  all  Martyrs. 

Have  patience,  O Child  of  My  Heart,  have  pa- 
tience: behold!  still  a little  while,  thy  grief  shall 
be  turned  into  joy,  and  I Myself, — who,  for  love  of 
thee,  was  crowned  with  thorns, — I will  crown  thee 
with  honor  and  glory. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Blessed  art  Thou, 
O Lord,  who  didst  visit  Thy  servant,  that  in  time, 
Thou  mayst  mercifully  prepare  me  for  eternity! 

0 my  God,  heavenly  Healer  of  men!  behold,  to 
Thy  keeping  I intrust  my  body  and  soul.  Thou 
knowest  what  is  best  for  me:  do  with  me  whatso- 
ever Thou  wilt,  according  to  the  goodness  of  Thy 
Heart. 

1 suffer  much,  Lord  Jesus;  Thou  knowest  it. 
Assist  me  with  Thy  grace:  strengthen  me  with  Thy 
love.  If  Thou  wilt  that  my  pain  be  lasting,  in- 
crease Thy  grace,  increase  my  patience. 

Whatsoever  I endure,  I unite  with  Thy  suffer- 
ings, so  much  more  painful  than  mine,  and  I im- 
plore Thee,  that  Thou  direct  all  to  Thy  honor  and 
my  salvation. 

Grant  me  this  great  favor,  which  I humbly  beg 
of  Thee,  through  Thy  most  benign  Heart,  that 
Thou  keep  me  inseparably  united  with  Thee,  and 
thus  lead  me  to  the  end  of  my  miseries,  to  bliss 
everlasting. 


444 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

HOW,  AFTER  THE  EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS,  WE  OUGHT  TO  ACCEPT  DEATH. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  Pilate  led  Me 
forth,  wearing  a crown  of  thorns  and  a purple  gar- 
ment, and  showing  Me  to  all  the  people,  he  said; 
“ Behold  the  man!,  ” 

The  Jews  seeing  Me,  were  not  only  not  softened, 
but,  on  the  contrary,  thirsted  more  eagerly  for  the 
remainder  of  My  Blood;  and  all  shouted  with  one 
accord:  Crucify,  crucify  Him! 

Pilate,  being  again  disappointed,  and  fearing 
even  more  than  before,  said:  “I  find  no  cause  in 
Him.”  But  they  insisted  the  more,  and  threatened 
him:  “ If  thou  releasest  this  one,”  they  cried, 
uthou  art  not  a friend  of  Caesar.” 

Seeing  that  he  could  not  give  freedom  to  Me 
without  losing  the  favor  of  the  people,  and,  prob- 
ably, that  of  Caesar,  Pilate  formed  to  himself  a false 
conscience,  and  thus  fell  into  a fatal  delusion.  For, 
washing  his  hands  before  the  people,  he  said:  “I 
am  innocent  of  the  Blood  of  this  Just  one:  look 
ye  to  it.”  But  they  shouted:  “ His  Blood  be  upon 
us  and  upon  our  children!  ” 

Then  Pilate  decided  that  their  request  should 
be  granted,  and  Me,  whom  he  had  again  and  again 
found  and  declared  innocent,  he  delivered  up  to 
their  will,  that  I might  be  crucified. 

2,  Oh!  My  Child,  who  shall  tell  what  My 
Heart  then  felt?  Behold!  I had  come  down  from 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


445 


heaven  to  console  and  save  the  world:  I had  strug- 
gled in  heat  and  cold,  I had  endured  hunger  and 
thirst,  I had  spent  My  life  by  ceaseless  labor  and 
endless  suffering;  I had,  finally,  sacrificed  every- 
thing, to  make  all  men  happy:  and  must  I at  last 
receive  from  them,  as  a requital,  death,  yea  the 
death  of  the  Cross  I 

How  great  a sorrow  rushed  upon  My  Heart  at 
so  black  an  ungratefulness,  so  horrid  an  iniquity  of 
men!  How  great  a grief  at  the  obdurateness  of 
the  hearts  of  those,  who,  spurning  felicity,  devoted 
themselves,  of  their  own  accord,  to  destruction! 
How  great  a torment  at  the  affliction  of  My  most 
compassionate  Mother,  and  beloved  Disciples,  from 
whom  I saw  Myself  torn  away  not  only  cruelly, 
but  also  disgracefully! 

Nevertheless,  the  sentence  of  death  I embraced 
with  My  Heart  resigned,  because  I regarded  not 
the  unheard-of  wickedness  of  those  that  condemned 
Me,  but  considered  the  good  pleasure  of  My  heavenly 
Father. 

For  My  Father,  in  His  infinite  Wisdom,  wished 
to  draw  the  greatest  good,  the  Redemption  of  the 
world,  from  the  greatest  crime,  whereof  He  disap- 
proved, and  that  they  were  committing  by  an  abuse 
of  their  free  will. 

Therefore,  in  spite  of  the  feelings  of  My  suffer- 
ing human  nature,  I submitted  with  a certain  su- 
pernatural joy  to  a death,  whereby  the  world  was 
to  be  saved,  heaven  opened,  the  divine  Majesty  ap- 
peased and  honored,  My  Heart  Itself  loved  in  re- 
turn, and  exalted  for  endless  eternity. 

Study  these  dispositions  of  My  Heart,  Child 
put  on  these  sentiments:  and,  as  much  as  thou  ar. 


446 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


able,  accept  with  the  same  affections  the  death 
which  thou  must  undergo. 

3.  My  Heart, — knowing  that  men  naturally 
shrink  from  death,  and  dread  it  as  the  most  terrific 
of  all  things  on  earth,  on  account  of  the  past,  the 
present,  and  the  future, — did  not  suffer  them  to  be 
without  an  example,  whereby  they  might  rightly 
be  instructed  and  sweetly  comforted. 

Be  not,  then,  troubled,  nor  astonished,  My  Child, 
if  thou  feelest  a vehement  horror  and  repugnance 
of  nature  when  death  is  approaching,  either  actu- 
ally or  prospectively.  In  this  there  is  no  harm:  it 
is  wholly  natural,  which,  if  thou  wilt,  may  prove 
advantageous  to  thee. 

Only  do  not  yield  to  the  feelings  of  nature,  lest, 
perchance,  they  render  thee  ill-disposed;  or  hinder 
thee  from  being  resigned  to  the  divine  Will, — to 
which  all  things  natural  and  created  must  be  sub- 
missive. 

Patiently  endure  every  natural  repugnance,  and 
use  the  same  as  an  occasion  to  practice  great  vir- 
tues, and  to  gather  many  merits. 

4.  My  Child,  suffer  not  thy  imagination  to  stray, 
neither  follow  thou  natural  reason  in  order  to  in- 
vestigate the  dispensations  of  divine  Providence; 
nor  do  thou  give  in  to  thy  own  will,  how  good  or 
holy  soever  it  may  appear,  lest  thou  fall  into  a dan- 
gerous delusion. 

But,  thy  imagination  being  restrained,  subject 
both  thy  reason  and  thy  will  to  Me:  thus  thou  wilt 
merit  not  a little,  and,  at  the  same  time,  remain 
tranquil  and  secure. 

If  thou  feelest  pain  or  uneasiness,  by  reason  of 
the  objects  or  persons  that  death  obliges  thee  to 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


447 


leave  behind,  let  not  thy  heart  be  disturbed.  For 
this  anxiety  could  not  be  of  any  avail  to  them, 
neither  to  thyself,  but  it  might,  on  the  contrary,  be 
very  hurtful. 

When  thou  hast  done  for  them  what  thou  art 
obliged  or  able  to  do,  intrust  them  all  to  Me,  who 
know  thy  circumstances,  and  who,  according  to  the 
love  of  My  Heart,  will  have  a much  better  care  of 
thine  than  thou  art  able  to  bestow. 

Be  mindful  of  My  example,  Child;  reflect,  how 
I abandoned  them  that  were  dear  to  Me,  and  com- 
mitted them  to  the  divine  good  pleasure.  With 
this  do  thou  occupy  thyself,  with  this  be  thou  com- 
forted. 

5.  Do  not  sadden  thyself,  My  Child,  because  thou 
thinkest  thyself  about  to  depart  this  life.  For  what 
is  life  upon  earth  except  a continued  annoyance? 
What  is  it  to  abide  in  this  world,  except  to  remain 
in  exile?  What,  in  fine,  is  it  to  dwell  among  men, 
except  to  sojourn  away  from  Me  and  My  Angels  ? 

If  thou  lookest  rightly  at  the  matter,  when  I 
call  thee,  better  is  death  for  thee,  than  a life  of  bitter- 
ness. For  death  is  the  end  of  the  ills  of  this 
world;  and  departure  thence  to  Me,  the  beginning 
of  blessings,  which  know  neither  change  nor  termina- 
tion. 

The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — But,  O Lord  Jesus, 
if  I knew  that,  after  death,  I should  be  among  the 
Saints  with  Thee,  I would  assuredly  not  be  grieved, 
but  I would  rejoice  indeed;  yet,  at  this  I tremble, 
by  this  I am  tortured,  that  I know  not  what  is  to 
be,  whether  I may  be  judged  worthy  of  love  or  of 
hatred:  whether,  consequently,  a happy  or  an  un- 
happy eternity  awaits  me. 


448 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


The  voice  of  Jesus. — Why  fearest  thou,  or  why 
art  thou  in  vain  filled  with  anxiety,  My  Child? 
Know  thou,  that  a person  who  is  sincerely  willing 
to  be  saved  and  to  co-operate,  for  this  purpose,  with 
grace, — from  how  wicked  soever  a way  of  life  he 
may  turn  himself, — shall  not  be  cast  off  by  Me, 
who  desire  that  all  be  saved. 

Hold  this  for  certain,  that  for  him  who  does 
what  he  is  able  to  do,  I will  supply  the  rest.  Do 
then  peacefully  what  thou  canst,  and  throw  thyself 
upon  My  Heart:  here,  Child,  here  thou  shalt  never 
perish. 

Be,  therefore,  quiet,  and,  as  far  as  thou  art  able, 
prepare  thyself  for  thy  passage  from  time  into 
eternity. 

6.  And  first,  offer  thyself  to  Me,  with  a submis- 
sive heart,  and  pray  that  I may  accept  thy  death 
in  union  with  Mine,  as  a sacrifice  to  atone  for  all 
thy  offenses,  to  satisfy  for  all  thy  debts,  to  render 
due  worship  to  the  divine  Majesty,  and  to  testify 
thy  love  for  Me. 

Then,  with  all  thy  heart,  forgive  wholly  every 
one  of  thy  enemies,  all  thy  neighbors,  who  have 
injured  or  offended  thee  in  any  matter  whatsoever. 

Next,  with  all  diligence,  receive  the  holy  Sacra- 
ments, with  which  the  Church,  in  her  motherly  solic- 
itude, is  careful  to  strengthen  thee,  that  in  the  last 
struggle  thou  mayst  be  enabled  to  obtain  victory, 
and  enter  heaven  in  triumph. 

Finally,  resign  thyself  altogether  into  My  hands, 
desirous  of  dying,  not  when  or  in  what  manner 
thou  mayst  wish,  but  when  and  in  what  manner 
I may  prefer.  Thou  know^est  neither  the  time  nor 
the  circumstances  which  are  the  best  for  thee;  but  I 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


449 


know  them,  Child,  and  under  these,  if  thou  dost 
not  voluntarily  put  a hindrance  thereto,  I will  call 
thee  to  Me. 

Wherefore,  resign  thyself  entirely  to  Me,  by  an 
absolute  surrender  of  thyself  into  My  hands;  and 
be  persuaded  that  thou  canst  do  nothing  better  than 
conform  thyself  wholly  to  the  divine  good  pleasure 
and  sacrifice  thyself  as  a holocaust  of  the  same.  If 
thou  dost  this  thou  wilt  be  saved. 

7.  How  happy  he,  My  Child,  who  thus  prepares 
himself  for  death,  and  keeps  himself  in  readiness! 
For  him  doubtless  death  is  safe  and  blissful;  for 
him  death  brings  no  evil,  but,  on  the  contrary,  a 
great  and  manifold  good. 

For,  behold!  thy  Father,  who  is  in  heaven;  th} 
mother  the  Queen  of  heaven;  thy  companions, 
the  holy  Angels;  thy  Brethren,  all  the  Elect;  thy 
true  and  permanent  country;  thy  glory  and  bless- 
edness: ali  these  are  in  the  other  life,  and,  except 
in  the  other  life,  thou  canst  not  enjoy  them  fully. 

Now,  Child,  death  is  the  only  gate  through 
which  thou  art  able  to  pass  from  this  life  into  the 
next.  Is  it  not,  then,  a happy  hour,  when  I Myself 
will  open  for  thee  the  door  to  such  possessions  ? 

Meanwhile,  until  the  time  comes,  when  I will 
open  for  thee,  act,  suffer  generously;  endure  perse- 
veringly:  I am  with  thee  in  thy  toil  and  tribu- 
lation; and,  unless  by  a voluntary  act  thou  set  Me 
aside,  I will  continue  with  thee  until  I introduce 
thee  into  My  kingdom,  into  the  fellowship  of  the 
Saints  and  Angels. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet 
Jesus!  how  great  a consolation  dost  Thou  pour  into 
my  soul  from  Thy  affectionate  Heart.  If  the  unc~- 


45° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


tion  of  Thy  secret  communion  is  so  delightful,  what 
will  be  the  very  possession  of  Thyself  in  the  king- 
dom of  Thy  glory! 

Yea,  Lord,  introduce  me  into  Thy  kingdom:  for 
I long  to  be  released  and  to  be  with  Thee. 

Draw  my  soul  from  her  prison,  that,  from  the 
dungeon  of  this  miserable  life,  I may  pass  to  the 
freedom  of  the  heavenly  country,  from  all  these 
misfortunes  to  bliss  never-ending. 

O Jesus,  my  God  and  my  Father!  whose  child  I 
am,  lingering  here  in  the  land  of  the  stranger,  if, — 
as  I hope  from  Thy  Heart,  so  infinitely  good, — I am 
to  enjoy  Thee  for  evermore,  why  is  not  the  little  re- 
mainder of  my  life  engulfed  by  eternity  ? Why 
am  I not  even  now  with  Thee,  to  love  Thee  per- 
fectly, to  sing  Thy  mercies  forever,  to  praise,  to  ex- 
tol without  end,  without  measure,  the  kindness,  the 
love  of  Thy  Heart? 

So  long  as  I stay  here,  I am  in  danger  of  losing 
Thee  alike  and  myself:  so  long  as  I carry  about 
this  mortal  body,  I can  neither  avoid  all  defects 
nor  love  Thee  so  much  as  I desire. 

O Lord  Jesus!  when  I consider  these  things, 
for  Thy  sake,  my  soul  is  weary  of  life.  However, 
not  as  I will,  but  as  Thou  wilt : Thy  will  be  done  as 
it  is  in  heaven,  so  also  upon  earth.  For  love  of 
Thee,  I choose  rather  to  incur  that  danger,  to  un- 
dergo those  bitter  things  according  to  Thy  Will, 
than  by  my  own  will  to  escape  from  them. 

Only  do  Thou  remain  with  me:  and  keep  me 
resigned  to  Thee,  united  with  Thee  during  the  rest 
of  this  life,  unto  life  everlasting. 

O Thou  life  of  the  present!  O all  ye  things  visi- 
ble! what  are  ye  when  beheld  from  the  threshold 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


451 


of  eternity!  seen  thence,  ye  appear  what  ye  are, 
bright  and  empty  vapors. 

O eternity!  object  unutterable!  great  thoughts 
do  I form  concerning  thee:  but  greater  are  in  thee: 
things  infinite  are  in  thee,  which  eye  has  not  beheld, 
nor  ear  heard,  nor  the  human  heart  conceived. 

O everlasting  abode  of  all  that  have  received 
rational  life!  soon  I shall  be  in  thee:  soon  I shall 
behold  thy  wonders:  at  any  moment,  when  comes 
the  Bridegroom,  whom  my  soul  loves,  it  may  be 
opened  to  me:  so  soon  as  it  is  opened,  behold! 
leaning  upon  the  Heart  of  my  Beloved,  I enter  to- 
gether with  Him.  Yea,  Lord  Jesus,  my  love  for- 
evermore! 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

WITH  WHAT  DISPOSITION  OF  HEART,  AFTER  THE 
EXAMPLE  OF  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF 
JESUS,  WE  OUGHT  TO  FEEL  AFFECTED  TOWARD 
THE  CROSS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  when  the  sen- 
tence of  death  had  been  pronounced  against  Me, 
everything  was  prepared  with  the  utmost  dispatch 
for  its  execution.  Behold,  the  cross  stood  already 
waiting  for  Me. 

Bound,  therefore,  all  covered  with  blood,  torn 
with  stripes  and  wounds,  I was  led  to  the  cross: 
when  I beheld  it,  My  Heart  warming  up,  sighed 
out:  Hail,  O hail,  dear  cross,  always  loved,  unceas- 
ingly desired,  at  last  prepared  for  Me!  O sacred 


452 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


cross!  through  thee  I will  conquer,  through  thee  I 
will  triumph,  through  thee  I will  reign. 

Then,  embracing  the  cross  and  pressing  it  fondly 
to  My  Heart,  I bedewed  it  with  My  tears  and  My 
Blood:  next  I placed  it  upon  My  shoulders,  in  the 
sight  of  the  world,  before  the  gaze  of  heaven. 

Surrounded  by  the  thousands  of  Jews  and  Gen- 
tiles, in  the  holy  City,  in  the  full  light  of  mid-day, 
clad  in  My  own  garment,  I marched  onward  carry- 
ing My  own  cross. 

Behold,  Child,  I go  to  raise  the  cross  upon  the 
mountain,  the  standard  of  My  kingdom,  against  the 
prince  of  the  world:  and  to  paint  upon  My  stand- 
ard, with  My  own  Blood,  the  indelible  watchword 
of  My  own:  “The  love  of  Jesus  sacrificing  Him- 
self for  the  love  of  man,”  in  opposition  to  the 
\Vatchword  of  worldlings:  “ Love  of  the  pleasures, 
riches,  honors  of  the  world.” 

By  this  My  watchword,  by  this  sign  thou  wilt 
conquer,  My  Child;  but  the  enemies,  erring  in  their 
watchword  and  sign,  shall  fall. 

2,  Beneath  the  banner  of  the  cross  men  will  flock 
together  from  every  nation,  and  people,  and  tribe 
of  the  earth;  and  they  will  be  united  among  them- 
selves with  Me. 

Under  this  banner,  My  Disciples  will  know  Me 
as  their  Leader,  and,  animated  with  love  for  Me, 
they  will  follow  Me  cheerfully. 

Under  this  banner  all  they  who  are  Mine  will 
fight;  will  triumph  over  hell,  the  world,  them- 
selves, and  bear  off  the  kingdom  of  heaven  itself. 

Come,  ye,  then,  come  ye  all,  and  what  ye  shall 
see  me  do,  do  ye  also:  let  each  one  take  up  his 
cross  and  follow  Me,  his  eyes  ever  fixed  upon  Me, 


CHAPTER  xvm. 


453 


marching  onward  with  a great  courage  and  dilated 
heart,  nowhere  turning,  neither  to  the  right  nor  to 
the  left. 

All  ye,  that  shall  have  accompanied  Me,  shall  be 
partakers  of  an  assured  victory,  of  an  everlasting 
reward:  but  the  more  closely  any  one  shall  have 
followed  Me,  and  with  the  greater  courage  of  love 
he  shall  have  behaved,  the  more  close  shall  he  be 
to  Me  in  glory,  the  greater  shall  he  be  in  My  ever- 
lasting kingdom. 

Let  none  forget  the  watchword:  let  none  desert 
the  banner,  but  let  each  one  be  prepared  to  con- 
quer or  to  die  for  the  watchword  beneath  that 
banner*  altogether  assured,  that,  if  so  disposed, 
whether  he  live  or  die,  he  shall  be  My  companion, 
and,  therefore,  the  partaker  of  My  most  certain 
factory. 

3.  I,  My  Child,  never  abandoned  the  cross:  but 
t clung  to  the  cross,  I persevered  on  the  cross,  I 
expired  on  the  cross,  conquering  and  triumphing. 

Happy  the  soul,  that,  animated  with  My  senti- 
ments, lovingly  embraces  the  cross,  and  keeps  to  it 
faithfully  I Her  does  the  cross  keep  near  Me;  it 
does  not  cast  down,  but  it  raises  up;  it  does  not 
encumber,  but  it  leads  easily  to  the  hight  of  sanc- 
tity, to  the  final  triumph. 

Wherefore,  Child,  thou  shouldst  remain  with  Me 
under  the  cross,  live  under  the  cross,  die  under  the 
cross,  if  thou  wilt  be  made  like  to  Me,  and  one  day 
triumph  with  Me. 

Listen  to  none,  neither  to  flesh,  nor  blood,  nor 
spirit,  that  advises  thee  to  forsake  the  cross. 

Where,  Child,  where  can  it  be  better  than  under 
the  cross?  The  cross  is  the  guide  to  the  everlast- 


454 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


ing  kingdom:  the  cross  is  the.  wisdom  of  the  Apos- 
tles, the  trophy  of  the  Martyrs,  the  glory  of  the 
Confessors,  the  security  of  the  Virgins,  the  sancti- 
fication of  old  age,  the  preservation  of  youth,  the 
condemnation  of  worldlings,  the  mirror  of  religious, 
in  fine,  the  refuge  and  comfort  of  all  the  afflicted. 

If  thou  fleest  from  the  cross,  whither  wilt  thou 
go?  Behold!  thou  shalt  fall  into  the  camp  of  the 
enemies;  where  thou  shalt  have  not  one  cross,  but 
where  manifold  torments  will  meet  thee  from  every 
side,  will  rush  upon  thee,  will  destroy  thee. 

There  My  banner,  which  breathes  the  love  of  My 
Heart,  inspires  courage  and  generosity,  will  not 
incite  or  console  thee;  but  the  fetters  of  tyrants, 
under  a showy  name,  will  drag  thee  through  thorny 
paths;  not  to  happiness  but  to  misfortune;  not  to 
joys  but  to  pains;  not  to  glory  but  to  ignominy. 

Here,  under  the  cross,  Child,  thou  art  with  Me, 
thou  hast  Me  to  lead,  to  guard,  to  crown  thee:  here 
thou  art  in  the  midst  of  all  the  good,  the  brave, 
the  generous;  here  thou  art  in  communion  with 
the  Elect  and  the  Saints,  who  have  preceded  thee, 
and  who,  whilst  living,  fought,  and,  when  dying, 
triumphed  under  the  cross : here,  in  fine,  thou 
formest  one  fellowship,  one  army  with  the  Angels 
themselves,  who,  thronging  to  thy  side,  protect 
thee,  fight  along  with  thee,  strive  to  extend  the 
same  kingdom. 

Foolishly,  therefore,  and  fatally  w^ouldst  thou 
act,  shouldst  thou  think  of  forsaking  the  cross,  or 
imagine  that  it  can  anywhere  be  better  for  thee, 
than  beneath  the  cross. 

4.  However,  since  the  prince  of  the  wicked 
world  and  his  emissaries  are  thy  enemies,  do  not 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


455 


wonder  if  they  allure  thee  frequently  by  imagi- 
nary advantages;  and  endeavor,  by  showy  reasons, 
to  induce  thee  to  desert  the  cross,  and  to  pass  over 
to  them. 

My  Child,  do  not  even  cast  a glance  at  their  false 
• advantages,  nor  hearken  thou  to  their  wily  subtle- 
ties: but  lift  thy  heart  and  eyes  to  Me,  who  carry 
My  banner  before  thee,  and  protest  that  it  is  thy 
determined  will  to  follow  Me  to  every  fortune, 
even  to  death  itself. 

Henct.,  it  will  come  to  pass  that  the  assaults 
and  wiles  of  thy  foes  will  awaken  in  thy  heart  a 
greater  abhorrence  of  them,  and  a more  firm  ad- 
herence to  Me. 

5.  But  it  is  not  enough  for  thee,  My  Child,  not 
to  flee  from  the  cross;  thou  must  embrace,  thou 
must  carry  the  cross. 

Give  heed  to  this,  mark  this  carefully:  do  not  all 
the  faults  which  thou  committest  arise  from  this, 
that  thou  refusest  or  hesitatest  to  embrace  and 
carry  the  cross,  which  is  offered  to  thee? 

When  thou  woundest  charity,  what  else  is  the 
true  cause  thereof,  except  that  thou  declinest  to 
undergo  the  present  cross,  some  humiliation,  the 
sacrifice  of  thy  own  opinion  or  natural  inclination? 

Why  dost  thou  offend  against  holy  poverty  ? Is  it 
not  because  thou  takest  not  the  cross  to  thyself; 
because  thou  art  unwilling  to  subject  thyself  to  the 
trouble  of  asking  leave,  or  to  expose  thyself  to  a 
refusal  ? 

Why  dost  thou  trespass  against  modesty?  is  it 
not  because  thou  neglectest  mortification;  because 
thou  dost  not  embrace  this  cross? 

Why  failest  thou  in  obedience?  is  it  not  because 


45° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


thou  lovest  not  the  cross;  because  thou  dost  not  make 
the-entire  sacrifice  of  thy  will  and  judgment? 

Yea,  Child,  against  what  virtue  soever  thou  sin- 
nest  or  offendest,  if  thou  lookest  well  into  it,  thou 
wilt  find  this  to  be  the  cause,  that  thou  dost  not  take 
upon  thee  nor  embrace  the  cross  with  a willing  heart. 

Nevertheless,  a cross  of  this  kind  is  small  and 
fight:  if  thou  dost  not  receive  lovingly  such  a one, 
how  wilt  thou  take  up  one  which  is  greater  and 
heavier  ? 

Look,  Child,  lest  falling  into  delusion,  thou  be- 
come worse:  like  those,  who  fancy  for  themselves 
some  great  cross,  and  resolve  to  carry  it  at  some 
future  time,  and,  meanwhile,  studiously  shun  every 
present  cross,  although  less  burdensome;  and,  when 
placed  between  the  cross  and  guilt,  are  wont  to 
embrace  the  latter  rather  than  the  former. 

6.  What  fearest  thou?  why  dreadest  thou  the 
xross?  Cheer  up,  My  Child:  receive  the  cross,  it 
will  receive  thee,  and  reward  thee  in  a wonderful 
and  manifold  way:  for,  behold!  it  will  preserve 
thee  from  uneasiness,  from  trouble  of  conscience, 
from  anguish  of  heart,  by  which  others,  who  prefer 
guilt  to  the  cross,  are  wont  to  be  tormented;  it  will 
guard  for  thee  peace,  it  will  adorn  thee  with  virtues; 
in  fine,  it  will  console  thee  by  its  unction. 

Courage,  then,  My  Child;  even  if  thou  experi- 
encest  difficulty,  do  not  flag  in  spirit.  Behold!  I, 
the  guiltless  Son  of  God,  carry  before  thee,  for  love 
of  thee,  the  heaviest  cross:  do  not  disdain,  for  love 
of  Me,  to  carry  thy  cross  after  Me.  Love,  which 
rendered  My  bitter  cross  sweet  for  Me,  will  also 
render  thine  sweet. 

Pray  frequently,  that  thou  mayst  deserve  to  love 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


457 


the  cross,  together  with  sanctifying  grace,  above 
all  the  good  things  of  this  life, — the  cross,  a folly, 
indeed,  to  them  that  perish,  but  divine  wisdom  to 
them  that  are  saved:  a torment  to  the  enemies,  but 
a consoling  pledge  of  everlasting  bliss  to  the  Dis- 
ciples of  My  Heart. 

Well,  then,  My  Child:  come,  follow  Me:  thither 
leads  the  way  whither  I will  show  thee:  if  thou 
abidest  with  Me,  I will  dispose  unto  thee,  as  My 
Father  has  also  disposed  unto  Me,  a kingdom. 

7.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple . — As  the  Lord  lives: 
and  as  lives  the  Lord,  my  King,  in  whatsoever 
place  Thou  mayst  be,  my  Lord,  whether  in  death 
or  in  life,  there  will  be  Thy  servant. 

Gazing  upon  Thy  standard,  and  encouraged  by 
its  motto,  I will  follow  Thee,  my  Leader,  through 
all:  if  any  hardship  present  itself,  mindful  of  Thy 
watchword,  I will  repeat:  for  the  love  of  Jesus, 
who  has  sacrificed  Himself  for  love  of  me,  I will 
overcome  this  difficulty:  despite  the  feeling  of  na- 
ture, I will  remain  under  His  banner. 

If  armies  in  camp  should  stand  together  against 
me,  my  heart  shall  not  fear : if  a battle  should 
rise  against  me,  in  Thee  will  I hope. 

Come,  ye  companions,  behold!  Jesus  will  be 
King  over  us:  He  will  march  out  before  us,  He 
will  fight  our  battles. 

Let  us  go  out,  bearing  His  reproach:  let  us 
hasten  to  the  contest  placed  before  us,  looking  on 
Jesus,  the  Author  and  Finisher  of  our  faith;  who, 
having  joy  set  before  Him,  endured  the  cross. 

Let  us  go  and  die  with  Him:  if  we  die  together 
with  Him,  with  Him  we  shall  also  live:  if  we  en- 
dure with  Him,  with  Him  we  shall  also  reigu 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


458 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

THAT  JESUS  CRUCIFIED,  BY  PRAYING  FOR  HIS  EXE- 
CUTIONERS, MANIFESTS  THE  INFINITE  ’ GOODNESS 

OF  HIS  HEART  TOWARD  SINNERS,  AND  THAT,  BY 

GRIEVOUS  SIN,  THESE  CRUCIFY  HIM  ANEW. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  behold  1 at 
last  we  come  in  Golgotha,  to  Mount  Calvary.  They 
lay  down  the  cross  forthwith,  they  push  forward 
and  hurry  on  everything. 

Nor  do  they,  meanwhile,  cease  to  torture  Me. 
Nay,  they  even  gave  Me  wine  mingled  with  myrrh 
and  gall.  So  great  was  their  cruelty! 

And,  when  they  were  now  ready,  raising  a shout, 
they  cruelly  fasten  Me  to  the  cross,  driving  in  the 
nails,  with  violent  and  repeated  strokes,  which  the 
valley  below  re-echoed  to  the  sky, — each  one  of 
which  pierced  the  Heart  of  My  Mother,  there 
present. 

Thus,  Child,  did  they  dig  My  hands  and  My 
feet:  they  counted  all  My  bones,  which,  by  the 
stretching  of  My  Body,  could  be  seen  distinctly. 

Then  couldst  thou  behold  the  cross  ruthlessly 
raised,  and  Myself  hanging  between  heaven  and 
earth;  whilst  the  Blood  flowed  from  every  wound, 
washing  the  earth,  and  crying  to  heaven  for  the 
salvation  of  man. 

And,  to  increase  My  torments,  they  raised  on  the 
gallows  two  thieves,  one  at  My  right  and  one  at  My 
left,  so  that  I was  hanging  between  them. 

But  behold!  so  soon  as  I was  elevated  on  the 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


459 


cross,  darkness  overspread  the  whole  earth.  The 
sun  and  the  moon,  together  in  mourning,  hid  their 
light,  and  wrapped  the  world  in  doleful  grief. 

The  people  stood  looking  on.  They  that  passed 
by,  shaking  their  heads,  blasphemed  Me.  But  they 
that  stood  around  mocked  Me:  in  like  marner 
also,  the  chiefs  of  the  priests,  with  the  Scribes  and 
elders,  insulted  Me  by  derisive  gestures  The 
soldiers,  too,  jeered  at  Me,  and,  adding  insults, 
they  offered  Me  vinegar.  All,  in  fine,  sated  Me 
with  reproaches. 

And  amidst  all  this,  what  was  I doing  Child? 
What  My  Heart?  Father!  I exclaimed,  unfolding 
My  Heart,  Father!  forgive  them;  they  know  not 
what  they  do:  they  know  not  how  enormous  is  the 
crime  which  they  are  committing. 

2.  The  Angels  wept  at  this  spectacle:  all  nature 
recoiled  with  horror,  amazed  at  so  great  a wicked- 
ness of  men,  awe-struck  at  the  marvelous  goodness 
of  My  Heart. 

Thou  alone,  wicked  sinner,  remainest  unmoved 
whilst  the  universe  trembles:  thou,  whilst  heaven 
and  earth  are  terror-stricken,  renewest  the  tortures 
of  My  Passion. 

Behold!  by  sinning  again,  thou  puttest  a new 
cause  for  My  death:  thou  perpetratest  afresh  that 
for  which  I was  nailed  to  the  cross,  that  for  which 
I also  died. 

Nay,  more,  since,  by  My  grace,  and  by  thy  own 
experience,  thou  knowest  Me  better,  and  art  bound 
to  requite  Me  with  greater  gratitude  and  a more 
tender  love;  if  thou  dost  again  deliver  Me  up  by 
sin,  thou  hast  a greater  sin  than  they  that  crucified 
Me:  thou  superaddest  to  the  painfulness  of  Mv 


460 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


wounds:  thou  piercest  My  Heart,  not  when  It  is 
dead,  but  whilst  It  is  living:  by  thy  cruelty,  as  far 
as  in  thee  lies,  thou  slayest  Me,  the  Author  of  life, 
the  Judge  of  thy  everlasting  destiny. 

3.  O most  wretched  of  men!  does  naught  of  all 
this  move  thy  heart?  More  wicked  than  Judas 
the  betrayer,  thou  sayest  to  thy  vile  passions: 
What  will  ye  give  to  me,  and  I will  deliver  Him  to 
you? 

And,  placed  between  the  passions  which  allure 
thee,  and  Myself  who  forbid  thee,  thou  exclaimest: 
Not  this  One,  but  Barabbas! 

And  when  thy  conscience  cries  out  against  thee: 
What,  then,  shall  I do  with  Jesus?  thou  shoutest, 
by  thy  actions:  Let  Him  be  crucified!  let  Him  be 
crucified! 

And,  O crime!  wishing  to  gratify  thy  desires, 
with  Pilate  thou  givest  Me  up  to  be  scoffed  at,  to  be 
scourged,  to  be  crucified! 

Is  this,  O man!  is  this  the  return  thou  makest 
to  Me,  who  created  thee,  who  redeemed  thee,  who 
preserved  thee?  Have  all  My  favors,  so  great  and 
so  numerous,  come  to  this,  that  for  all  these  things 
thou  makest  again  a mockery  of  Me  and  nailest 
Me  to  the  cross! 

4.  O if  thou  didst  realize  how  frightful  an  evil 
thou  art  committing  when  thou  sinnest  in  this 
manner,  how  couldst  thou  venture  to  do  it?  how 
canst  thou  have  the  hardihood? 

Dost  thou  desire  to  know  how  a great  an  evil 
grievous  sin  is?  consider,  how,  in  order  to  atone 
for  it,  I,  the  only  Son  of  God,  did  give,  not  the  world, 
not  heaven,  not  mankind,  not  the  Angels,  but  My 
Own  Self,  the  Lord  of  heaven  and  earth,  of  men 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


461 


and  Angels,  so  as  to  pour  out  My  Blood  and  lay 
down  My  very  life,  amid  torments  surpassing  all 
understanding. 

Dost  thou  wish  to  know  it  still  more  clearly? 
Reflect,  with  a living  faith,  how  sin  renders  all  the 
torments  of  My  Passion  useless,  and  renews  the 
same,  in  a most  cruel  manner,  for  thy  greater  con- 
demnation. 

Assuredly,  the  malice  of  sin  is  nowhere  seen 
more  evidently  than  in  My  Passion:  neither  could 
the  enormity  of  sin  have  ever  been  known  so  clearly, 
if  I had  not  died  for  it  upon  the  cross. 

Weep,  then,  sinner,  weep  for  thyself  and  over  thy 
future  lot:  for  if  in  the  green  wood,  if  in  Me,  the 
sins  of  others  do  produce  such  an  effect:  what  will 
thy  own  sins,  so  great  and  so  numerous,  do  in  the 
dry  wood,  in  thee  ? 

If  the  Angels,  when  they  yielded  to  pride,  were 
not  spared,  but  were  dealt  with  according  to  jus- 
tice; how  much  greater  punishments,  thinkest  thou, 
does  that  man  deserve,  who  tramples  upon  the  Son 
of  God,  even  after  he  has  crucified  Him  ? 

Be  not  deceived,  be  not  over-confident  because 
thou  art  not  punished  on  the  spot;  for  new  I en- 
dure: in  time  I give  way  to  mercy,  because  for  the 
exercise  of  justice  I have  an  eternity. 

If  thou  so  wilt,  thou  canst  fill  up  the  measure  of 
the  sins  which  are  tolerated  in  thee.  I will  not 
take  away  thy  free  will.  I desire  from  men  no 
service  extorted  by  necessity. 

Behold!  from  the  treasury  of  My  Heart,  I have 
poured  out  upon  thee  abundant  grace:  if  thou 
wilt  co-operate  efficaciously  I will  give  thee  an 
incomparable  reward:  if,  on  the  contrary,  thou 


462 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


wilt  not,  look  thou  to  it;  thou  shalt  bear  the  conse- 
quences. 

But  lo!  I am  still  thy  Saviour,  still  thy  Father, 
ready  to  receive  thee  in  My  arms : but  after- 
wards thou  shalt  find  Me  a just  Judge  and  Re- 
tributer. 

Have  pity  on  thy  soul,  while  it  is  yet  time;  and 
do  not  render  thyself  forever  unhappy,  by  misusing 
that  Passion,  whereby  thou  canst  secure  for  thyself 
everlasting  bliss. 

5.  Come,  O come  to  the  cross:  here  the  kindness 
of  thy  Saviour  is  made  manifest:  here  the  greatness 
of  My  fatherly  affection  shines  forth:  here  My 
wounds  do  not  only  move  to  sorrow  and  penitence, 
but,  likewise,  offer  both  pardon  and  grace:  here  the 
voice  of  My  Blood,  with  a loud  cry,  makes  interces- 
sion for  thee:  here,  finally,  My  Heart  burns  with 
desire  for  thy  eternal  salvation. 

Contemplate,  gaze  upon  Me,  the  Son  of  God, 
nailed  to  the  cross  and  dying  for  sin:  and  thou  wilt 
detest  the  same  with  thy  whole  heart,  and  turn  thee 
again  to  serve  Me  with  fervor;  even  as  the  crowd  of 
those  that  were  present  on  Calvary,  and  beheld  this 
spectacle,  returned  striking  their  breasts. 

If  thou  art  tempted  to  sin  again,  fly  to  the  cross: 
and,  looking  upon  Me  hanging  thereon,  say  to  thy- 
self: Behold!  the  Son  of  God  dies  upon  a cross  to 
save  me:  shall  I crucify  Him  anew,  in  order  to 
damn  myself?  Should  I do  this,  can  there  be  in 
hell  punishments  enough  to  punish,  according  to 
its  deserts,  so  great  an  iniquity? 

In  every  contest  with  the  devil,  thou  canst  con- 
tend with  him  in  no  more  advantageous  place  than 
beneath  the  cross:  for  here  was  he  despoiled  of  his 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


463 


sway  and  strength:  here  thou  shalt  easily  triumph 
over  him. 

6.  And  thou,  My  Child,  didst  thou  understand 
what  I said?  Didst  thou  fully  comprehend  what 
horrible  things  the  sinner  does  against  Me,  when  he 
sins  grievously?  Canst  thou  behold  unmoved  all 
this?  art  thou  not  willing  to  use  thy  every  effort  to 
hinder  such  things? 

See  how  important  a matter  it  is  to  prevent  sin, 
since,  by  so  doing,  thou  hinderest  Me  from  being 
again  overwhelmed  with  reproaches,  from  being 
again  torn  to  pieces  by  scourges,  from  being  again 
crucified,  at  least  in  desire,  by  the  sinner. 

Wherefore,  shouldst  thou  prevent  only  one  sin, 
thou  wouldst  do  something  greater  and  better  than 
if  thou  shouldst  preserve  thy  country  from  destruc- 
tion. 

Canst  thou  love  Me,  and  not  care  to  turn  away 
so  great  an  evil  from  Me?  If  love  do  not  inflame 
thee,  let  compassion  at  least  move  thee  to  take  care 
that  I be  not  again  subjected  to  insults  so  great  and 
manifold. 

Thou  makest  profession  of  being  a Disciple  of 
My  Heart:  of  thee,  therefore,  I ask,  of  thee  I de- 
sire with  My  innermost  Heart,  that,  by  thyself  and 
by  others,  whomsoever  thou  canst  induce  thereto, 
thou  strive  as  much  as  thou  canst,  always  and 
everywhere,  to  prevent  sin,  and  to  make  amends  to 
Me  by  the  fidelity  of  thy  love  for  the  cruel  ungrate- 
fulness of  sinners. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — But  I also,  Lord 
Jesus,  am  a sinful  person  I am  not  worthy,  I 
confess  it  to  Thee,  to  be  called  a Disciple  of  Thy 
Htart. 


464 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


For  I have  heaped  countless  insults  upon  Thee: 
I,  too,  have  sated  Thy  Heart  with  the  most  bitter 
sorrows:  yea,  did  I not, — O be  merciful  to  me  a 
sinner!  did  not  I oftentimes  crucify  Thee? 

Eternal  thanks  to  Thee  for  that  infinite  goodness 
of  Thy  Heart,  whereby  Thou  hast  borne  with  me 
so  patiently,  and  hast  converted  me  so  mercifully. 

O most  benign  and  sweet  Jesus!  I humbly  im- 
plore Thee,  grant  me  grace  to  make  amends  for  the 
great  wrongs  I have  done  Thee,  and  to  love  Thee, 
during  the  remainder  of  my  life,  with  the  more  fer- 
vor and  tenderness  the  kinder  and  sweeter  Thou 
hast  been  to  me 


CHAPTER  XX. 

THAT  JESUS,  BY  FORGIVING  FROM  HIS  HEART  THE 
THIEF,  AND  BY  PROMISING  PARADISE  TO  HIM, 
TEACHES  US  HOW  WE  SHOULD  ENDURE  ANXIETY 
CONCERNING  OUR  ETERNAL  SALVATION. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold!  My  Child,  while 
all  nature,  wrapped  in  darkness,  was  mourning  for 
Me,  one  of  the  thieves,  hanging  near  Me,  began 
to  blaspheme  Me:  but  the  other,  struck  with  a sav- 
ing fear,  rebuked  him:  And  dost  thou  not  fear 
God,  said  he,  seeing  that  thou  art  under  the  same 
condemnation?  And  we,  indeed,  justly;  for  we 
receive  the  reward  due  to  our  deeds:  but  He  has 
done  no  evil. 

Moved  by  the  example  of  My  divine  patience, 
heroic  charity, — whereby  I had  prayed  for  My  very 


CHAPTER  XX. 


4^ 

torturers,— the  unconquerable  meekness  of  My 
Heart,  My  perfect  resignation  amidst  the  torments 
of  My  Passion,  and  assisted  by  a supernal  light  and 
grace,  he  conceived  and  expressed  his  faith  and 
hope  in  Me,  as  well  as  his  love  for  Me. 

Penitent  in  heart,  he  turned  himself  with  affec- 
tion  to  Me,  and:  Lord,  he  exclaimed,  Lord,  re- 
member me,  when  Thou  shalt  come  into  Thy  king- 
dom. 

Seeing  that  he  co-operated  with  grace, — which 
outwardly  worked  upon  him  by  means  of  the  spec- 
tacle presented  to  his  view,  and  inwardly  flowed 
upon  him  from  My  Heart, — I hastened  to  console 
him,  as  he  was  well-nigh  overwhelmed  by  the 
weight  of  his  past  offenses,  and  full  of  anxiety  about 
the  future  salvation  of  his  soul. 

Forthwith  of  a robber,  I made  him  a Saint;  of  an 
avowed  evil-doer,  a Disciple  of  My  Heart;  of 
the  sinful  Dismas,  a companion  and  partaker  of  My 
kingdom.  Such  is  the  goodness  of  My  Heart! 

Verily,  I said  to  him,  verily,  this  day  thou  shalt 
be  with  Me  in  Paradise.  He  believed,  and  continu- 
ing to  weep  for  his  errors,  and  to  love  My  good- 
ness, he  persevered  calmly  upon  his  cross,  await- 
ing the  blissful  hope,  and  union  with  Me  in  My 
kingdom. 

Lo,  My  Child,  how  thou  shouldst  deport  thyself 
amid  the  troublesome  anxieties  concerning  thy  sal- 
vation, which  torment  thee  sometimes. 

2.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Do  not  take  it 
amiss,  I beseech  Thee,  O Lord,  if  I speak.  Be- 
hold! Thou  didst  not  say  to  me:  Thou  shalt  be 
with  Me  in  Paradise.  Wert  Thou  to  tell  me  this,  I 
would,  of  a certainty,  believe  it;  neither  would  I 


466 


THE  THIRD  BOOK* 


be  any  longer  uneasy  about  my  everlasting  salva- 
tion. But  now,  I do  not  know  what  may  befall  me 
in  the  end,  and  for  this  is  my  heart  tormented. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Were  I to  say  the  same 
Child,  thou  couldst  not  understand  it,  except  in  so 
much  as  it  is  compatible  with  thy  free  will;  for  I 
am  ever  the  same:  I made  man  in  the  beginning, 
and  left  him  in  the  hand  of  his  own  counsel:  I gave 
him  My  commands,  and  said  to  him:  If  thou  wilt 
keep  My  commands,  they  will  keep  thee. 

But,  thy  freedom  remaining  the  while,  and  being 
rightly  used,  I say  also  to  thee:  Thou  shalt  be 
with  Me  in  Paradise.  For  I will  that  thou  and  all 
others  be  saved. 

It  is  true  that  some  vessels  are  made  unto  honor, 
and  others  unto  dishonor:  but  it  is  the  wickedness 
of  man,  not  the  Providence  of  God,  that  makes  the 
vessels  unto  dishonor.  For,  if  any  one,  being  a ves- 
sel unto  dishonor,  correct  himself,  he  shall  be  a 
vessel  sanctified  unto  honor. 

3.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — Salvation,  then,  O 
Lord,  depends  on  man’s  free  will. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Thou  mistakest,  My  Child: 
for  man,  in  order  to  work  out  his  salvation,  yea, 
even  to  begin  to  do  so,  needs  grace  from  above, 
without  which  he  can  neither  secure  the  same,  nor 
even  attempt  it. 

But  I give  freely  this  preventing  and  assisting 
grace  to  all  men;  by  the  use  of  which  each  one 
can  save  himself,  by  its  neglect  he  loses  himself. 

Therefore,  man’s  salvation  comes  from  Me  first; 
afterward,  it  depends  on  his  own  free  co-operation: 
but  his  perdition  arises  in  the  first  place  from  him- 
self, in  the  next,  from  the  neglect  of  grace. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


46  J 


The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yet,  O Lord,  it  is 
this  possibility  of  abusing  my  free  will;  and  the 
dread  that,  at  some  time  or  other,  I will  abuse  it, 
which  especially  disquiets  my  heart. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — But,  My  Child,  herein  lies 
the  virtue,  the  glory  of  man,  that  he  has  the  power 
to  transgress,  and  yet  does  not  transgress;  to  do 
evil,  and  does  not  do  it.  This  is,  upon  earth,  a ser- 
vice worthy  of  Me,  honorable  to  Me:  most  noble 
and  meritorious  for  thee. 

Yea,  thy  very  anxiety,  lest  thou  mayst,  at  some 
future  time,  abuse  thy  free  will,  provided  it  be  kept 
within  proper  bounds,  will  procure  thee  many  ad- 
vantages. 

For  nothing  is  better  adapted  to  keep  thee  in 
humility,  without  which  all  other  virtues  are  nigh 
to  a fall  and  to  destruction,  than  to  know,  yea,  in 
some  manner,  to  feel,  that,  even  if  by  holiness  thou 
art  raised  to  the  third  heaven,  thou  mayst  still  be- 
come a reprobate. 

Thence  arises,  also,  a more  anxious  love  for  Me, 
whereby  thou  exertest  thyself  to  avoid  more  care- 
fully all  dangers  and  to  cling  more  firmly  to  Me. 

Thou  wilt  also  learn  to  withdraw  thyself  more  per- 
fectly from  the  things  of  this  life  when  thou  know- 
est  that  no  complete  security  can  be  found  therein. 

Lastly,  thou  wilt  sigh  more  fervently  for  that 
immortal  life,  where  thou  shalt  be  safe  and  secure, 
not  only  from  danger,  but  from  the  fear  of  danger. 

4.  It  is  profitable,  My  Child,  to  be  solicitous, 
above  everything  else,  concerning  thy  everlasting 
salvation:  but  thou  shouldst  be  on  thy  guard  lest 
thou  fall  into  faintheartedness. 

There  are  they  who, — seeing  that  it  is  possible 


468 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


for  them  to  be  lost,  and  trembling  with  fear,  lest 
they  may  lose  in  the  future  the  merits  which  they 
have  acquired  by  much  labor,  and  fall  into  an 
eternity  of  woe, — become  so  downhearted  that 
they  have  neither  strength  nor  courage  to  serve 
Me  with  cheerfulness,  but  they  drag  on  a life  un- 
worthy alike  of  Me  and  of  themselves. 

Whence  it  happens,  that  of  a possibility  they 
make  a reality,  by  turning  a possible  into  a real 
danger. 

Be  thou  wiser,  My  Child:  beware  lest  thou  con- 
vert that  which  is  for  thy  good  into  thy  downfall: 
lest  by  too  great  a fear  of  ruin  thou  expose  thyself 
to  ruin. 

Keep  faithfully  thy  good  will  of  doing  what 
morally  thou  art  able;  and  patiently  endure  every 
anxiety,  if  thou  dost  experience  any  that  is  trouble- 
some, as  a precious  and  wholesome  share  which  thou 
hast  inwardly  in  My  sorrows. 

In  suffering  an  affliction  of  this  sort,  endeavor 
on  the  one  hand,  never  to  yield  to  it,  but  to  remain 
resigned  to  the  divine  Will;  and,  on  the  other,  be 
careful  not  to  leave  off  anything  of  thy  usual  works 
or  practices,  which  are  conducive  to  thy  salvation 
and  perfection. 

5.  Whatever  inward  sufferings  thou  mayst  feel, 
be  not  disturbed  thereby,  fully  persuaded,  that  to 
a person  of  good  will, — who  does  what  he  can, — 
troubles  cannot  arise  except  from  the  enemy  of  sal- 
vation; who — unable  to  lead  such  a one  into  sin  or 
destruction — endeavors  to  lead  him  by  annoyances, 
anxieties,  specious  subtleties,  under  pretense  of 
greater  security,  to  that  whereto  he  cannot  bring 
him  by  temptation. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


469 


Guard  diligently  against  these  snares,  My  Child; 
nor  suffer  thyself,  by  any  reasoning  whatsoever,  to 
be  pushed  out  of  the  center  of  thy  peace. 

So  apply  thyself  to  work  out  thy  salvation,  as  if 
its  success  depended  on  thy  labors;  and  so  have 
recourse  to  Me  by  prayer,  as  if  I alone  could  make 
thee  not  only  succeed,  but  also  make  thee  perform 
the  works  themselves;  and,  lastly,  so  do  thou  con- 
fide in  Me,  as  to  believe  that  I will  hear  thy  prayer 
and  crown  thy  labors  with  a happy  result. 

6.  But  behold!  My  Child,  every  man  is  here 
disquieted  in  vain:  for  I desire  that  none  should 
perish.  Now  what  is  it  that  can  cause  the  perdi- 
tion of  a person  except  sin?  Keep  thyself,  there- 
fore, free  from  sin,  and  thou  shalt  not  perish  for- 
ever. 

Why,  then,  art  thou  tormented  by  anxiety  about 
thy  predestination?  Behold!  if  thou  wilt  be  pre- 
destined, shun  evil  and  do  good  perseveringly,  and 
thou  shalt  be  predestined. 

Blessed  is  he,  who,  setting  aside  all  vain  reason- 
ings, by  deeds,  not  by  speculations,  strives  to  mak*, 
his  election  sure! 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet  and 
loving  Jesus!  Thou  art  truly  the  God  of  consola- 
tion. Thanks  to  Thee  for  this  great  blessing, 
whereby  Thou  raisest  up  and  refreshest  my  down- 
cast heart. 

Behold!  Thou  art  hanging  on  the  cross,  over- 
whelmed by  sorrows,  and  Thou  forgettest  Thyself 
in  order  to  be  mindful  of  men;  Thou  securest  my 
salvation  not  only  by  suffering  but  also  by  con- 
soling. Why,  then,  should  I not  calmly  intrust  to 
Thee  my  everlasting  destiny? 


470 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


By  Thy  grace,  which  I will  never  cease  to  im- 
plore, I will  do  all  that  I can;  all  other  solicitude 
I throw  upon  Thy  most  tender  Heart,  which  did 
not  suffer  even  the  thief  to  perish  in  death. 

Remember  me,  Lord,  in  Thy  kingdom;  be  mind- 
ful of  me  in  my  banishment:  be  especially  mindful 
of  me  whensoever  Thou  seest  me  in  danger  of  losing 
my  soul;  remember  me  in  life  and  in  death,  that 
hereafter  I may  be  with  Thee  in  Paradise. 


CHAPTER  XXI.  • 

HOW  GREAT  A TENDERNESS  OF  HEART  JESUS  MANI- 
FESTED TOWARD  US,  WHEN  HE  GAVE  US  HIS 

OWN  MOTHER  AS  OUR  MOTHER. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold!  My  Child,  there 
stood  beneath  the  cross  the  Virgin  Mary,  My 
Mother,  whom  neither  affliction  of  Heart,  nor  the 
insults  of  the  crowd,  nor  the  cruelty  of  the  tor- 
turers, nor  the  danger  of  death,  were  able  to  part 
from  Me. 

For  she  was  prepared  in  her  Heart,  either  to  die 
in  My  presence  or,  to  be  present  while  I was  dying. 

There  also  stood  the  Disciple,  who,  by  the  inno- 
cence of  his  life,  was  most  endeared  to  Me;  and 
who,  at  the  last  Supper,  reposing  upon  My  Breast, 
inebriated  himself  with  the  love  of  My  Heart. 

When  I saw  Mj  Virgin  Mother  and  the  Virgin 
Disciple,  whom  My  Heart  loved,  looking  upon  My 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


471 


Mother,  I said:  Woman,  behold  thy  son.  Then  to 
the  Disciple,  as  to  the  one  representing  them  all: 
Behold  thy  Mother.  And  from  that  hour  the 
Disciple  took  her  as  a Mother. 

2.  Behold  then,  My  Child,  at  what  time  men 
were  incessantly  heaping  new  and  more  cruel  tor- 
ments upon  Me;  where  the  malice  of  the  human 
heart  overflowed,  there  more  than  overflowed  the 
love  of  My  Heart. 

When  about  to  expire  and  to  go  away  into  My 
kingdom,  I did  not  wish  to  leave  My  Disciples 
orphans,  but,  in  My  love,  I resolved  to  give  them 
a Mother,  the  best  of  all  mothers,  My  own  Mother 
herself. 

Nay,  more,  on  account  of  the  eminent  dignity  of 
My  Mother,  and  My  perfect  love  for  her,  it  was  be- 
coming that  I should  manifest  every  solicitude  and 
every  care  for  her;  that  I should  provide  for  her 
the  honor  and  love  which  are  her  due. 

For  this  it  was  befitting,  that,  always  and  every- 
where, I and  she,  being  known  together,  should  also 
be  loved  together. 

And,  indeed,  even  from  the  beginning  of  the 
world,  when  God  promised  Me  as  a Saviour  to  man 
groaning  beneath  the  tyranny  of  the  infernal  ser- 
pent, He  promised  also  My  Mother. 

This  divine  promise,  so  full  of  all  consolation, 
spread  among  the  whole  posterity  of  the  first  man, 
and  ever  continued  to  be  cherished  with  a religious 
reverence.  For,  although  it  was  obscured  among 
the  nations,  it  was  preserved  always  unchanged 
among  the  people  of  God:  and  from  time  to  time 
it  was  renewed  through  the  Prophets,  and  unfolded 
the  more  clearly,  the  more  nearly  the  fullness 


472 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


of  time  was  at  hand,  when  God  would  send  His 
own  Son,  to  be  born  of  the  Virgin. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  those  whom  from  eternity, 
in  the  counsels  of  His  mercy,  God  had  joined 
together,  whom  He  had  promised  together;  them 
also  were  men  expecting,  for  them  together  they 
were  longing.  For,  as  often  as  they  did  exclaim 
with  a sigh  to  My  Father  in  heaven:  Distill  dew, 
ye  heavens,  from  above;  and  let  the  clouds  rain 
down  the  Just!  so  often  they  sighed  for  My  future 
Mother:  Let  the  earth  be  opened,  and  bud  forth 
the  Saviour! 

3.  When,  at  length,  I came  into  the  world  as 
the  Saviour,  behold!  I was  seen  with  My  Virgin 
Mother.  From  the  time  I possessed  a created 
Heart,  this  Heart  was  inseparably  united  to  the 
Heart  of  My  Mother. 

I ever  honored  and  loved  the  Virgin,  in  a man- 
ner worthy  of  her — as  My  Mother;  and  she,  in 
return,  honored  and  loved  Me,  not  only  as  her  Son, 
but  also  worshiped  and  cherished  Me  as  her  God. 

There  is  no  created  being  upon  earth,  nor  in 
heaven,  that  has  honored  and  loved  Me,  that  has 
worshiped  and  cherished  Me  as  much  as  My  Virgin 
Mother.  She  by  herself,  she  alone,  by  her  worship 
and  love,  has  incomparably  surpassed  and  excelled 
all  the  Saints  and  Angels  together. 

Nor  is  there  anywhere  a heart,  which  is  so  much 
united,  so  acceptable  to  My  Heart,  as  is  the  Heart 
of  My  Virgin  Mother. 

And  should  not  I honor,  should  not  I love  such 
a Mother?  and  should  not  I wish  to  see  her  hon- 
ored and  loved  always  and  everywhere  ? Is  it 
thus  My  Heart  is  known? 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


473 


4.  Verily,  verily,  I say,  wheresoever  the  Gospel 
shall  be  preached  in  the  whole  world,  it  will  be 
said:  That  My  Mother  has  done  these  things  for 
Me,  and  that  I have  been  subject  to  her.  Nay, 
even  to  the  end  of  time,  wheresoever  I will  be  wor- 
shiped and  loved  as  a Saviour,  there  shall  Mary  be 
honored  and  loved  as  a Mother. 

Moreover,  in  whatsoever  place  My  Religion  shall 
exist,  it  will  ennoble  the  mind  of  man,  and  elevate 
the  condition  of  woman. 

For  whence,  thinkest  thou,  has  there  arisen  in 
the  mind  of  every  one  of  the  faithful  so  great  an 
esteem  for  innocence,  and  so  humane  a feeling  for 
woman,  except  from  My  most  pure  and  august 
Virgin  Mother? 

Uncivilized  barbarism  made  woman  a slave  of 
misery:  civilized  infidelity  made  her  an  idol  of  the 
passions;  error  in  religion,  an  instrument  of  deceit; 
the  true  Religion  alone  made  her  truly  free  and 
truly  estimable;  preserves  her  free  and  worthy  of 
honor,  by  ever  proposing  to  her  as  a model  the 
Virgin  Mother  of  God. 

5.  Behold,  then,  My  Child,  behold  thy  Mother, 
who  adopted  thee  beneath  the  cross,  whilst  she  was 
suffering  with  Me.  This,  thy  Mother,  thou  shalt 
honor  all  the  days  of  thy  life,  remembering  what, 
together  with  Me,  she  suffered  for  thee. 

Acknowledge  the  greatness  of  the  gift  which, 
when  dying,  My  Heart  bequeathed  to  thee,  by  giv- 
ing thee  such  a Mother.  What  is  there  better  that 
It  could  have  given  to  thee?  Behold!  in  all  the 
world,  there  is  naught  dearer  to  My  Heart,  nothing 
sweeter  for  thee,  than  this  best  of  mothers. 

For  her  maternal  Heart  overflows  with  an  extraor- 


474 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


dinary  compassion,  love,  and  solicitude;  nor  can 
she  forget  to  cherish  the  children  whom,  amidst 
such  sorrows,  she  received  from  Me,  when  I was 
expiring. 

Her  Heart,  modeled  after  Mine,  is  opened  to  all 
under  the  sweetest  of  appellations,  the  heart  of  a 
Mother;  so  that  all  they  that  have  recourse  to  it, 
are  easily  admitted,  kindly  received,  and  intro- 
duced by  her  to  My  Heart. 

Through  the  Virgin  Mary  I came  to  men; 
through  her  also  must  men  come  to  Me. 

Whatsoever  graces,  therefore,  thou  desirest  to 
obtain  from  Me,  intrust  it  to  Mary;  that  My 
Mother,  and  thy  Mother,  may  appeal  to  My  Heart 
in  thy  favor,  and  prove  that  she  is  a Mother. 

She  will  certainly  be  heard  for  the  veneration 
due  to  her;  for  it  is  not  becoming  that  I turn  away 
My  face  from  My  Mother,  or  refuse  her  anything. 
A Mother’s  rights,  which  she  possessed  and  exer- 
cised upon  earth,  she  has  not  lost  in  heaven, 
where  she  reigns  with  Me,  the  Queen  of  Angels 
and  of  all  the  Saints. 

If  any  one  come  to  Me  through  My  Virgin 
Mother,  he  shall  not  be  cast  off,  but  he  shall  be 
admitted  even  into  My  Heart;  and  he  shall  learn 
by  experience,  how  great  is  the  hight  and  the 
depth  and  the  breadth  of  the  power,  which  My 
Mother  possesses  over  My  Heart. 

6.  As  I,  by  nature,  have  God  as  My  Father,  and 
Mary  as  My  Mother;  so  also,  Child,  if,  by  adoption, 
thou  desirest  to  have  God  as  thy  Father,  thou  must 
have  Mary  as  thy  Mother. 

And,  if  thou  art  desirous  to  find  Marv  thy 
Mother,  show  thyself  a child,  do  not  sadden  her 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


475 


Heart,  by  grieving  My  Heart  through  sin.  For 
accursed  is  he  that  angers  his  mother. 

But  a twofold  curse,  a twofold  woe  to  them  that 
venture  to  destroy  or  to  diminish  the  honor  and 
love  due  to  My  Mother  1 for  as  the  praises,  so  are 
also  the  sneers,  aimed  at  My  Mother,  flung  back  at 
Me,  her  Son. 

Therefore,  also,  shall  her  enemies  be  infamous: 
yea,  whosoever  shall  sin  against  her,  shall  hurt  his 
own  soul.  But  they  that  make  her  known  by 
duly  honoring  and  loving  her,  shall  have  life  ever- 
lasting. 

Do  not  think  that  Mary  is  merely  equal  to  the 
Saints  and  Angels,  or  even  that  she  is  the  first 
among  them;  for  she  forms  an  order  above  all  the 
rest  of  creatures;  so  that,  far  surpassing  all  the 
Saints  and  the  heavenly  Spirits,  she  beholds  none 
above  her,  except  Myself  with  the  Father  and  the 
Holy  Ghost. 

Therefore,  she  must  be  honored  with  a special 
worship,  and  an  affection  all  her  own.  Love  and 
honor  her,  Child,  as  much  as  thou  art  able:  thou 
canst  not  offend  by  excess,  so  long  as  thou  dost  not 
honor  and  love  her  as  a Divinity. 

Above  all,  learn  of  Mary  to  follow  My  Heart 
perfectly.  For  she  kept  all  My  words,  and  all  My 
examples,  meditating  on  them  in  her  Heart:  and 
thus  she  attained  to  the  teaching  of  My  Heart, 
whose  life,  and  virtues,  and  sentiments  she  showed 
forth  and  expressed  to  perfection  in  herself. 

7.  Blessed  shalt  thou  be,  My  Child,  if  thou  dost 
so  venerate  My  Virgin  Mother.  Through  her, 
thou  shalt  find  the  way  to  holiness, — to  the  interior 
life, — easy  and  pleasant:  through  her,  thou  shalt 


476 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


obtain  mercy,  and  grace,  and  comfort,  and  every 
thing  else  that  is  necessary  or  useful  to  thee: 
through  her,  finally,  thou  shalt  be  and  continue 
with  Me. 

To  her,  therefore,  do  thou  have  recoume  under 
all  circumstances,  at  all  times.  What  canst  thou 
fear  ? thou  art  a child,  she  is  a Mother.  Why 
shouldst  thou  hesitate?  behold!  no  one  goes  to  her 
in  vain:  all  receive  through  her:  the  world  salva- 
tion, the  captive  redemption,  the  sinner  hope,  the 
just  glory,  the  Angels  joy. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  my  Sa- 
viour-God! Thou  givest  me  Thy  own  Mother  as  a 
Mother!  Who  has  ever  heard  anything  like  this? 
Thou  alone,  O Lord,  couldst  draw  such  a gift  from 
the  treasury  of  Thy  Heart,  and  bestow  the  same 
upon  us  sinners. 

Thanks  to  Thee,  most  loving  Jesus!  eternal 
thanks  to  Thee  for  so  great  a gift,  so  kindly  be- 
stowed upon  me  most  unworthy. 

Behold!  Thy  Mother  is  my  Mother!  Bear  with 
me,  most  sweet  Jesus,  if  I repeat:  Behold,  Thy 
Mother  is  my  Mother!  This  is  indeed  a shout  of 
joy  in  the  heart,  this  is  honey  in  the  mouth,  this 
is  sweetest  melody  in  the  ear. 

O blessed  me,  who  am  made  the  son  of  the  Queen 
of  heaven  and  earth,  of  the  Mother  of  my  God,  my 
Saviour,  my  Judge! 

Through  such  a Mother,  O my  Jesus,  I will  fly 
to  Thee:  through  her  motherly  love  I will  draw 
nigh  to  Thy  Heart;  through  her  Immaculate 
Heart,  I will  enter  into  Thy  Heart,  even  unto  an 
intimate  union  with  Thee. 

And  when  I shall  have  to  go  to  judgment,  be- 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


47?’ 

hold!  0 sweetest  of  all  consolations!  A shall  have 
an  advocate  with  the  Judge,  the  Mother  of  the 
Judge  and  mine,  a Mother  that  makes  intercession 
with  her  Son  for  a son,  a Mother  to  whom  the 
Judge  has  given  all  power  over  His  Heart. 

Thee,  therefore,  so  great  a Mother,  O sweet  Vir- 
gin Mary,  I will  endeavor  and  rejoice  to  honor  ever 
more  and  more;  I will  find  it  my  delight  by  every 
means,  to  extend  thy  worship,  so  long  as  life  en- 
dures. 

So  long  as  this  heart  of  mine  shall  be  capable 
of  loving,  it  will  love  thee,  O Mother  of  Jesus,  and 
my  Mother!  yea,  it  will  burn  to  influence  all  hearts 
with  the  same  fire  of  love,  diat  we  may  all  begin 
ypon  earth  to  love  Thee,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus,  and 
Jesus  for  His  own  dear  sake;  that  thus  we  may 
deserve  to  be  made  blissful  in  heaven,  and  continue 
to  love  and  to  cherish  throughout  ioyous  and  end- 
less ages. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

THAT  JESUS,  FORSAKEN  UPON  THE  CROSS,  TEACHES 
US  HOW  TO  ACT  WHEN  WE  ARE  LEFT  EXPOSED 
TO  TEMPTATIONS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  when  on  the 
cross  I bore  the  iniquities  of  men,  for  whom  I had 
given  Myself,  through  love,  as  a hostage  and  secu- 
rity; My  Father  so  loved  men,  that  He  delivered 
Me  up  for  them. 

Wherefore,  the  devil, — who,  after  the  temptation 


478 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


in  the  desert,  left  Me  for  a time,  having  returned 
during  My  Passion, — now  assailed  Me  more  vio- 
lently, and  pressed  Me  more  stubbornly. 

Beside  his  own  malice,  he  made  use  of  the  wick- 
edness of  men,  whom  he  stirred  up  both  to  afflict 
Me  with  every  torture  and  a most  disgraceful  death, 
and  to  perpetrate  before  Me  the  most  horrid  crimes. 

The  demon,  with  his  associates,  was  exulting,  as 
if  enjoying  a triumph;  and,  pressing  forward  his 
most  wicked  assaults,  he  cried:  God  has  forsaken  Him, 
pursue  and  take  Him. 

And  I,  without  any  sensible  comfort  whatsoever, 
crushed,  for  the  sake  of  men,  in  My  weakness,  wras 
abandoned  to  enemies,  who  were  Gutwardly  raging 
against  My  Body,  and  inwardly  tearing  My  Heart. 

In  My  loneliness,  in  the  midst  of  torments  so 
frightful;  behold!  to  the  Father,  whom  I loved 
infinitely,  and  by  wThom  I was  infinitely  loved,  I 
raise  My  eyes,  filled  with  tears,  and  well-nigh  ex- 
tinct, as  wTell  as  My  Heart,  now  reduced  to  Its  ut- 
most agony:  My  God!  My  God!  why  hast  Thou 
forsaken  Me? 

Lo,  Child,  the  utterance  of  the  unfathomable  af- 
fliction of  My  Heart,  sunk  into  an  abyss  of  sorrows, 
and  overwhelmed,  as  it  were,  by  a deluge  of  woes. 

2.  However,  I resigned  Myself  lovingly  to  the 
good  pleasure  of  My  heavenly  Father:  and  I 
offered  Myself  wholly  as  a sacrifice  to  Him,  who 
was  to  console  Me  at  last,  according  to  the  great- 
ness of  My  sorrows. 

But,  since  suffering  is  the  measure  of  love,  I en- 
dured and  made  known  this  excess  of  the  most  pain- 
ful anguish;  that  men  might  thence  learn  to  how 
great  an  extent  I have  loved  them. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


479 


And,  as  I remembered  others,  so  was  I especially 
mindful  of  thee,  My  Child:  yea,  for  thee  did  I en- 
counter, with  My  Heart  submissive  and  contented, 
the  rage  of  My  enemies,  and  that  deep-felt  dere- 
liction. 

For  I knew  that,  according  to  My  divine  Provi- 
dence, thou  couldst  not  be  exempt  from  the  assaults 
of  the  demon;  neither  was  I ignorant  of  the  great- 
ness of  the  affliction  which  thou  shouldst  have  to 
undergo  in  this  severe  struggle  with  a most  wicked 
foe:  and,  therefore,  I placed  before  thee  My  ex- 
ample, that  thence  thou  mightst  derive  abundant 
instruction  and  comfort. 

I know  thy  frequent  and  deep  groanings,  My 
Child,  when  thou  findest  thyself  in  the  midst  of 
relentless  foes,  whilst  thou  desirest  to  live  for  Me  in 
perfect  peace,  free  from  every  hindrance. 

But  consider  that  I,  the  only  begotten  Son  of 
God,  the  Saint  of  Saints,  was,  by  a spontaneous 
love,  exposed  to  the  rage  of  My  enemies  and  there 
left  forsaken:  and  thou  wilt  not  wonder,  nor  take 
it  hard,  if  thou,  in  many  ways  a sinful  person,  art 
suffered, — even  after  thou  hast  been  for  a long  time 
in  My  service, — to  be  exposed,  for  thy  own  advan- 
tage, to  the  assaults  of  the  tempter,  and  to  be  de- 
prived, during  them,  of  sensible  consolation. 

For,  in  this  is  the  divine  kindness  toward  thee 
made  apparent,  that  it  neither  takes  away  the  war, 
without  which  the  enemy  is  not  overcome,  and 
peace  secured;  nor  removes  the  occasion  of  the 
contest,  without  which  there  is  no  triumph,  and  no 
crown  obtained. 

It  is  an  effect  of  the  sincere  love  of  My  Heart, 
if  It  leaves  to  thee  wherewithal  thou  mayst  become 


480 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


conscious  of  thy  own  frailty,  when  exposed;  that 
thus  thou  mayst  be  kept  in  humility,  and,  impelled 
by  necessity,  mayst  continually  tend  and  draw  near 
to  Me. 

How  many  there  are  who,  through  temptations, 
persevered  and  were  saved,  and  who,  had  they  been 
without  these  trials, — growing  by  degrees  luke- 
warm and  proud, — would  in  the  end  have  become 
reprobates! 

Dost  thou  know  even  one,  among  all  those  that 
have  sanctified  themselves,  who  was  free  from 
temptations?  Have  not  the  greatest  Saints  been 
wont  to  feel  the  greatest  temptations? 

This  is  the  way  whereby  a more  than  ordinary 
purity  of  heart  is  obtained:  whereby  more  perfect 
virtue  is  acquired:  whereby  the  soul  is  better  pre- 
pared for  the  divine  union. 

3.  Many  err  in  this,  that  they  think  temptation 
a sin.  What  can  there  be  more  dangerous  than 
this  error?  Hence  arise  an  erroneous  conscience, 
anxiety,  faintheartedness,  sloth,  lack  of  strength 
and  courage  to  resist  generously,  and  to  triumph. 

Believe  Me,  Child,  even  should  a temptation  of 
any  kind  whatsoever  last  a whole  lifetime,  it  could 
not  make  thee  guilty  of  any  sin,  if  only  it  be  dis- 
pleasing to  thee. 

Cast  aside,  therefore,  so  baneful  an  error;  throw 
off,  in  like  manner,  an  overgreat  dread  of  being 
tempted.  This  dread,  born  of  error,  fostered  by 
self-love,  becomes  an  occasion  of  being  the  more 
tempted,  and  the  more  dangerously  too;  since 
thou  art  tempted,  not  so  much  by  a divine  permis- 
sion, as  through  thy  own  fault. 

This  is  one  of  men’s  misfortunes  that  they  ever 


CHAPTER  XX1L 


481 


tend  to  one  or  another  extreme.  For,  some  run 
great  risk,  because  they  fear  temptations  too  much; 
others,  because  they  do  not  sufficiently  guard  against 
them.  Thou,  My  Child,  follow  thou  the  middle 
course,  if  thou  wilt  be  safe. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yet,  Lord,  should 
not  sins  be  supremely  feared  and  shunned?  Why 
should  I not,  then,  extremely  fear,  and  shun  the 
dangers  and  occasions  of  sin? 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — Certainly,  My  Child,  sins 
should  be  extremely  feared  and  shunned.  But 
guard  against  deception:  avoid  confusion:  distin- 
guish correctly.  Temptation  is  one  thing;  sin  is 
quite  another : the  danger  of  temptation  is  one 
thing,  the  danger  of  sin  another:  finally,  trie  occa- 
sion, on  the  part  of  the  devil  tempting  to  sin,  is 
one  thins:;  the  occasion,  on  the  part  of  man  plac- 
ing himself  proximately  near  to  sin,  is  altogether 
different. 

Now,  the  occasion  on  the  part  of  man,  as  it 
is  a proximate  danger  of  sin,  and,  consequently,  a 
sin,  thou  shouldst  carefully  shun;  the  occasion  on 
the  part  of  the  devil,  as  it  is  simply  a danger  of 
temptation,  and,  therefore,  not  sinful,  thou  art  not 
obliged  to  avoid. 

Do  not  think  it  strange  if  the  devil  tempts  thee, 
since  his  sole  occupation  is  to  roam  about,  and  to 
tempt.  In  his  insolence  he  attacks  all,  uses  differ- 
ent ways  to  tempt ; when  driven  off,  he  is  not 
ashamed  to  return;  when  defeated  he  does  not  leave 
off  to  come  again  to  the  assault. 

Wherefore,  if  thou  art  tempted,  do  not  suffer  thy- 
self to  be  troubled.  It  is  the  malice  of  the  devil, 
not  thine  own  wickedness. 


482 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Thou  wouldst  act  foolishly,  and  to  no  purpose, 
shouldst  thou  lose  thy  peace  of  heart,  on  account 
of  temptations.  For,  by  so  doing,  thou  wouldst 
place  thy  peace  in  the  power  of  the  demon,  who, 
doubtless,  would  never  allow  thee  to  enjoy  the 
same. 

My  Child,  I know  thy  weakness;  I know  the 
malice  of  the  devil:  but  I know  also  the  power  of 
My  grace:  I know  what  of  thyself  thou  art  able  to 
effect  against  the  demon,  and  what  thou  canst  do 
by  grace.  And  I, — to  wThom  the  devil  is  so  much 
subject  that,  against  My  Will,  he  cannot  attack 
even  the  vilest  animals; — I,  to  whom  thy  salvation 
has  cost  so  much,  will  not  allow  that  thou  be 
tempted  beyond  what  thou  art  able  to  endure,  but  I 
will,  on  the  contrary,  prepare,  together  with  the 
temptation,  a favorable  issue. 

5.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — Thanks  to  Thee, 
good  Master,  sweet  Jesus,  for  that  Thou  hast  thus 
showed  me  how  I should  act  in  regard  to  tempta- 
tions, before  they  come  or  rush  upon  me:  teach 
me  also,  I beseech  Thee,  how  I should  deport  my- 
self, when  they  are  now  at  hand  and  assail  me. 

The  voice  oj  Jesus. — Observe,  Child,  that  the 
devil  may  assault  thee,  or  approach  thy  heart  in 
three  ways:  by  the  way  of  the  outward  senses;  by 
the  inward  way  of  the  understanding;  lastly,  by  a 
sort  of  middle  way,  that  of  the  imagination. 

By  whichsoever  of  these  ways  thou  mayst  be 
tempted,  so  soon  as  thou  perceivest  the  temptation, 
take  heed  that  thou  be  not  agitated  or  troubled: 
but,  by  directing  thy  attention  to  Me,  who  am  pres- 
ent, strive  to  possess  thy  mind  in  peace. 

If  the  temptation  comes  through  the  senses,  suf- 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


483 


fer  them  not  to  be  exposed,  without  sufficient  rea- 
son, in  the  direction  of  the  dangerous  object:  but 
quietly,  and  withal  manfully,  turn  them  away,  so 
that,  if  possible,  thou  do  no  longer  perceive  the  evil 
which  is  presented. 

If  it  assails  thee  through  the  understanding,  do 
not  act  so  as  to  deal  anywise,  even  mentally,  with 
the  foe;  but,  how  specious  soever  his  reasonings, 
how  much  soever  as  evident  truths  his  suggestions 
may  appear;  so  soon  as  thou  seest  them  to  be  con- 
trary to  some  virtue,  submit  thyself  to  Me,  without 
any  reasoning,  and  behold!  thou  shalt  be  victorious. 

If  the  temptation  is  pressed  upon  thee,  through 
the  imagination,  by  means  of  objects  formerly  per- 
ceived by  the  senses,  or  even  now  made  up  by  the 
devil,  take  diligent  care  that  thou  allow  not  the 
imagination  to  stand  still,  as  if  looking  at  the  imag- 
inings: but  do  thou  forthwith,  and  effectually, 
turn  away  the  imagination:  and  represent  to  it,  if 
convenient,  objects  known  by  faith,  such  as  death  or 
judgment,  hell  or  purgatory,  heaven,  or  rather  the 
Son  of  God  hanging  on  the  cross,  and  looking  at  thee, 
and  offering  to  thee  His  Heart,  as  a place  of  refuge. 

But  give  heed  to  this,  My  Child,  mark  this  well, 
that,  in  every  temptation  whatsoever,  it  is  enough, 
simply  to  turn  thy  mind  away  from  the  temptation 
to  some  other  object.  Since  this  is  to  resist  it,  even 
in  a positive  manner. 

These  things  having  been  guarded  against,  en- 
deavor as  much  as  thou  art  able,  for  thy  greater 
progress,  in  every  temptation,  to  unite  thyself  gently 
and  firmly  with  Me,  by  acts  of  love,  be  they  ever 
so  short. 

I do  particularly  recommend,  My  Child,  while 


484 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


thou  art  wont  to  live  in  the  state  of  grace,  that,  in 
temptation,  thou  make  use  of  acts  which  are  not 
directly  opposed  to  the  evil  suggested,  but  which 
unite  thee  by  love  with  Me.  For  thus  thou  wilt 
better  preserve  peace  of  heart,  frustrate  more  se- 
curely the  wicked  design  of  the  demon,  render  vir- 
tue more  solid,  and  unite  thyself  more  strongly  and 
more  perfectly  with  Me. 

However,  thou  must  always  rely  more  upon  di- 
vine grace  than  upon  thy  own  strength.  Where- 
fore, thou  shouldst  pray  frequently,  in  time  of  peace 
as  well  as  of  war,  that,  whilst  thou  art  contending, 
grace  may  support  thee,  encourage  thee,  give  thee 
victory. 

If,  in  this  manner,  thou  yieldest  the  glory  of  the 
victory  to  Me,  who  am  the  first  conqueror,  and  who 
will  not  give  My  glory  to  another;  then,  Child, 
will  I protect  thee  with  My  shield,  and  fight  for 
thee,  like  a strong  and  invincible  warrior:  and  a 
thousand  shall  fall  at  thy  side,  and  ten  thousand 
before  thee:  nor  shall  any  foe  prevail  against  thee. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O most  loving 
Jesus!  how  sweet,  how  pleasing  the  things  which 
out  of  Thy  Heart  Thou  pourest  down  upon  me! 
Let  heaven  and  earth  and  all  things  therein 
with  me,  return  Thee  a thousand  thanks! 

However,  I beseech  Thee,  teach  me  still  one 
thing,  and  it  is  enough.  Behold!  it  happens,  that 
when  I come  out  of  the  stiuggle,  I am  tormented 
by  a great  fear,  that  my  soul  has  perhaps  fallen  a 
prey  to  the  enemy. 

O Lord!  who  hast  the  words  of  everlasting  fife, 
speak  to  me  the  word,  whereby  my  soul  may  be 
comforted.  This  will  be.a  new  favor  of  Thy  Heart* 


CHAPTER  XXII.  485 

which  will  in  return  bind  me  to  Thee  by  a new  and 
sweet  debt  of  gratitude  and  love. 

The  voice  of  Jesus . — Behold!  My  Child,  if  the 
temptation,  while  it  was  upon  thee,  displeased  thee, 
thou  hast  a sure  sign  that  thou  didst  not  consent 
thereto.  But  in  this  also  thou  must  distinguish 
the  inferior  part  of  thy  heart  from  the  superior,  to 
which  it  belongs  to  sin  or  not  to  sin. 

The  inferior  part  does  not  always  agree  with  the 
superior,  but  frequently  in  spite  of  the  superior,  it 
takes,  in  some  manner,  pleasure  in  the  temptation: 
yea,  it  does  so  much  that  it  causes  the  superior, 
although  not  willing,  to  feel  some  pleasure.  But 
feeling  does  not  hurt,  where  there  is  no  consent. 

If  thou  doubtest  whether  thou  didst  merely  feel 
the  temptation,  or  whether  thou  didst  also  give 
consent  thereto,  observe  the  difference  between  feel- 
ing and  consenting.  Thou  mayst  indeed  feel  the 
temptation,  although  thou  dost  not  love  it,  with  thy 
free  will  adverting  to  its  being  wrong:  but  thou 
canst  not  consent  to  the  temptation,  unless,  per- 
ceiving that  it  is  a sin  or  evil,  thou  love  it  by  thy 
free  will. 

But,  when  thou  also  doubtest  whether  or  not 
thou  didst  love  the  temptation  in  this  manner,  fol- 
low the  rule  of  the  Saints:  A person  of  a delicate 
or  fair  conscience  may  hold  as  morally  certain  that 
he  did  not  consent,  so  long  as  he  is  not  sure  that 
he  did  consent. 

Assuredly,  My  Child,  whosoever  is  wont  to  cling 
to  Me,  and  with  a sincere  heart  dreads  to  be  sepa- 
rated from  Me,  if  at  any  time  he  is  tempted  to 
sin;  in  order,  knowingly  and  willingly,  to  consent 
thereto,  must  do  great  violence  to  himself,  both  to 


486 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


resist  the  saving  sting  ot  conscience — which  he  is 
in  the  habit  of  heeding  and  following — as  well  as  to 
turn  the  will  from  an  object  constantly  loved,  to  an 
object  constantly  held  in  abhorrence.  All  which, 
surely,  no  one  can  do,  without  clearly  distinguishing 
its  malice  and  without  embracing  it,  if  he  do  so  at 
all,  with  his  knowledge  and  will. 

On  the  contrary,  he  that  is  accustomed  to  sin 
through  an  evil  or  loose  conscience,  when,  after  hav- 
ing been  tempted,  he  doubts  whether  he  gave  con- 
sent thereto,  ought  to  presume  that  he  did  consent. 
For,  since,  on  principle  or  by  custom,  he  has  con- 
tracted a habit  suited  to  sin;  when  he  is  tempted 
to  evil,  in  order  to  be  able  to  resist,  he  must  like- 
wise offer  great  violence  to  himself,  not  only  to 
obey  actually  the  warning  voice  of  his  conscience, 
which,  in  a matter  of  this  kind,  he  was  not  wont  to 
heed,  but  also  with  a strong  will,  to  repel  the 
temptation.  Now,  all  this  he  cannot  do  without 
manifestly  perceiving  his  own  pious  efforts  and  his 
unusual  victory. 

7.  Hence,  thou  seest,  Child,  how  happy  they  are 
who  serve  Me  faithfully,  since,  in  temptations,  with 
which  man’s  life  is  replete,  they  may  so  agreeably 
console  themselves;  whereas,  they  that  are  negli- 
gent, for  their  shame  and  correction,  are  tormented 
by  inward  pains  and  anxieties. 

And  this  is  only  one  of  the  thousand  blessings 
which  I heap  upon  the  Disciples  of  My  Heart. 
Rejoice,  thou,  My  Child,  rejoice  in  so  great  a good; 
and  use  and  enjoy  it  for  the  glory  of  My  Heart, 
and  the  sanctification  of  thy  soul. 

This,  however,  thou  must  guard  against  after 
temptation,  that  thou  be  not  desirous  of  so  examin- 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


487 


in g into  the  matter  as  to  expose  thyself  to  danger, 
by  reviewing  in  thy  mind  the  temptation  or  its 
several  circumstances. 

As  much  as  circumstances  permit,  calmly  hum- 
ble thyself,  and  beg  pardon  if,  perchance,  thou 
hast  in  anywise  rendered  thyself  guilty  of  some 
pride,  some  inordinate  fear,  some  diffidence,  some 
curiosity,  some  carelessness.  After  this,  with  a 
renewed  love  for  Me,  proceed  boldly  and  cheer- 
fully. 

8.  Lastly,  remember,  My  Child,  that  the  way 
of  temptations  is  open  to  many  errors,  insomuch 
that  by  himself  no  one  can  safely  pass  through  it. 
Wherefore,  whosoever  thou  art,  religious  or  secular, 
learned  or  unlearned,  thou  needest  an  experienced 
guide;  and,  so  long  as  thou  dost  obediently  follow 
him,  I will  not  permit  that  obedience  lead  thee  to 
destruction.  I Myself  will  have  a care  of  thee. 

Come,  then,  Child,  cheer  up  thy  courage:  be 
stout-hearted.  Let  the  winds  blow;  let  the  storms 
rage;  how  canst  thou  be  fearful?  behold  1 I am 
with  thee. 

These  things  have  I spoken  to  thee,  My  Child, 
that,  in  the  midst  of  temptations,  thou  mayst  find 
relief  and  comfort;  but  not,  that  thou  mayst  have 
no  temptations,  nor  feel  their  irksomeness.  Endure 
them  in  the  right  spirit:  and,  in  their  own  time, 
they  will  produce  manifold  fruit. 

Do  not  grow  faint  in  courage,  but  be  resigned  to 
the  divine  Will.  Up,  then,  persevere  manfully, 
knowing  that  he  is  blessed  that  endures  temptation; 
because,  when  he  has  been  proved,  he  shall  receive 
the  crown  of  life. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O how  good  art 


488 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


Thou,  my  Jesus!  how  good  art  Thou!  Behold! 
O Thou  delight  of  the  Saints  and  Angels,  Thou 
art  forsaken  upon  the  cross,  and  deprived  of  every 
consolation;  yet,  meanwhile,  Thou  dost  not  aban- 
don me,  nor  suffer  me,  every  way  unworthy  as  I 
am,  to  be  without  solace;  for,  with  a marvelous 
sweetness,  Thyself  relievest  and  rejoicest  me. 

Willingly  do  I intrust  myself  to  Thy  care;  wholly 
do  I resign  myself  to  Thy  Will;  do  Thou  carry  out 
the  designs  of  Thy  Heart  in  my  regard:  cleanse 
and  sanctify  me  in  a way  and  manner  pleasing  to 
Thee.  Only  keep  me  from  every  sin. 

In  every  temptation,  in  every  danger,  assist  me 
efficaciously;  protect  me,  help  me;  so  keep  me 
united  with  Thee,  that  I may  never  be  separated 
from  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

THAT  JESUS,  IN  HIS  ABANDONMENT,  THIRSTING  AND 
NOT  RELIEVED,  SHOWS  US  HOW  WE  SHOULD  DE- 
PORT OURSELVES  IN  SPIRITUAL  DESOLATION. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — O all  ye  that  pass  by  the 
way  attend,  and  see  if  there  be  any  sorrow  like  My 
sorrow ! 

Lo!  all  My  persecutors  troubled  Me  taken  in  the 
midst  of  straits;  and  there  was  none  to  comfort 
Me  among  all  them  that  were  dear  to  Me. 

Behold,  My  Child,  My  head  pierced  with  thorns, 
My  face  covered  with  blood  and  tears,  all  My 
limbs  torn,  My  whole  Body  lacerated,  from  the 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


489 


sole  of  My  feet  to  the  crown  of  My  head  all  one 
wound : My  Heart  weighed  down  with  unutter- 
able sorrows,  undone  by  the  hard-heartedness  of 
men,  forsaken  by  My  beloved  and  most  loving 
Father  Himself. 

Amidst  all  these  sufferings,  I was  racked  by  a 
new  torture,  a most  violent  thirst,  so  that  I was 
forced  to  exclaim:  I thirst! 

This  thirst  was  manifold,  My  Child:  a burning 
thirst  even  unto  death,  of  refreshing  Myself,  every 
way  exhausted  as  I was;  a more  burning  thirst  for 
the  salvation,  the  love  and  everlasting  gratitude  of 
men;  lastly,  a most  ardent  thirst  for  the  fulfillment 
of  the  good  pleasure  of  My  heavenly  Father. 

But  My  enemies  hearing  it,  so  far  from  affording 
Me  relief,  on  the  contrary,  in  My  thirst  gave  Me 
vinegar  to  drink. 

For  the  restoration  of  the  divine  glory,  and  for 
the  salvation  of  men,  My  Father  willed  that  I 
should  die  in  the  deepest  affliction,  without  any 
relief. 

My  Passion  ever  increased:  but  apace  grew  the 
love  of  My  Heart,  whereby,  uniting  Myself  to  the 
divine  good  pleasure:  Yea,  Father,  I said  in  My 
Heart,  yea,  since  thus  it  is  pleasing  before  Thee. 

And  thus  I wholly  resigned  Myself  to  continue, 
and  at  last  to  expire  in  the  uttermost  desolateness. 

Meditate  on  these  things,  My  Child:  do  thou  also 
remember  them,  when  thou  art  thyself  experiencing 
spiritual  desolation. 

2.  So  long  as  exercises  of  piety  are  inwardly 
relished  and  please  the  spiritual  taste,  it  is  both 
easy  and  pleasant  to  be  engaged  therein;  but  it  is 
hard  and  disagreeable  to  perform  them  faithfully 


49° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


and  exactly  when  they  produce  only  wearisome- 
ness and  disgust. 

But  because,  during  that  inward  consolation,  the 
human  heart  is  wont  to  take  delight  in  a sensible 
sweetness,  and  does  not  purely  love  Me  for  Myself, 
I do  frequently,  when  he  is  now  able  to  bear  it,  de- 
prive a person  of  all  sensible  relish. 

This  is  a secret  invention  of  My  Heart,  that  the 
soul  may  learn,  even  in  spite  of  herself,  to  seek  and 
to  love,  above  all  things  sensible,  not  My  consola- 
tions, but  Myself. 

If  thou  remainest  faithful  in  spiritual  desolation, 
thou  provest  evidently  that  thou  servest  Me  by  pure 
love,  not  in  consideration  of  thy  present  advantages. 

Thou  shouldst,  therefore,  not  be  uneasy  amid 
desolation,  My  Child,  but  shouldst  exert  thyself  to 
act  generously  and  to  endure  manfully. 

3.  Continue  steadfastly  in  thy  undertaking;  and, 
in  order  to  overcome  weariness  or  disgust,  which 
comes  upon  thee  in  spiritual  desolation,  pray  more 
than  usually;  carefully  examine  thy  actions,  both 
interior  and  exterior;  watch  more  attentively  over 
thy  heart;  lastly,  mortify  thyself  in  small  things 
more  frequently  and  more  perfectly. 

By  this  constant  and  solid  fervor,  thou  wilt  effi- 
caciously resist  languor.  Meanwh:1^,  resign  thyself 
ever  more  and  more;  and  look  upon  it  as  thy  great- 
est consolation,  to  embrace  submissively  and  lov- 
ingly the  divine  Will. 

I do  not  always  desire  to  console  thee  in  a sensi- 
ble manner,  even  when  thou  hast  done  whatsoever 
thou  wast  able  to  obtain  the  same,  lest  it  prove  hurt- 
ful to  thee,  or  lest  thou  ascribe  to  thyself  whaf 
belongs  to  Me. 


CHAPTER  XXin. 


49 1 


But  this  I do  desire,  that  thou  keep  thyself  in 
all  humility,  and  love  Me  in  the  most  disinterested 
manner.  Therefore,  I suffer,  that  thou  shouldst 
intensely  feel  that  it  is  not  in  thy  power  to  acquire 
or  to  retain  consolation,  but  that  it  is  My  gift. 

Acknowledge,  then,  that  thou  art  altogether  un- 
able to  procure  true  consolation,  yea,  that  thou  art 
unworthy  of  receiving  even  the  least ; and  own 
that  it  is  the  highest  favor,  far  surpassing  every 
sensible  consolation,  when  thou  art  reckoned  by 
Me  among  My  children,  and  cherished  by  the  love 
of  My  Heart. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yea,  Lord  God,  it 
is  a very  great  grace,  an  incomparable  favor,  to  be 
Thy  Child,  to  be  dear  to  Thy  Heart;  but  my  deso- 
lateness does  not  only  cause  me  wearisomeness, 
betimes  it  even  does  not  allow  me  to  perceive  that 
favor. 

So  long  as  I possess  the  moral  conviction,  that, 
by  sanctifying  grace,  I am  a Child  dear  to  Thy 
Heart;  to  lack  all  consolation,  both  human  and 
divine, — although  it  is  hard  and  irksome  to  na- 
ture,— appears  bearable;  neither  does  it  take  away 
the  peace  of  the  heart. 

But,  Lord  Jesus,  sometimes  desolation  takes 
hold  of  me,  and  affects  all  the  powers  of  my  soul 
to  such  a degree  that  it  appears  to  me  that  I am 
separated  from  Thee,  and  that  I cannot  persuade 
myself  that  I still  possess  a place  in  Thy  Heart. 

O my  Saviour!  who  knowest  all  things,  and 
needest  not  that  any  one  tell  Thee,  Thou  know- 
est the  grealness  of  my  sufferings,  more  pain- 
ful than  1oath  itself.  Every  other  affliction  I 
deem  a colx  ation  in  comparison  of  this  desolate- 


49  2 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


ness,  upon  which  I dare  not  look,  and  yet  from 
which  I cannot  turn  away  my  eyes. 

0 Jesus!  by  the  excess  of  thy  own  desolateness 
upon  the  cross,  I entreat  and  implore  Thee,  do  not 
refuse  to  relieve,  or  at  least  to  instruct  me.  I con- 
fess that  I do  not  deserve  either  of  these  favors, 
and  that  Thy  example  ought  to  be  enough  for  me; 
yet  unless  Thou  Thyself  appliest  it  to  me,  I am 
such  a wretch,  that  seeing  I do  not  perceive,  and 
hearing  I do  not  understand. 

5.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  it  is  one  thing 
to  do  good,  and  another  to  know  that  thou  art 
doing  good.  The  former  makes  up  the  merit;  the 
latter  begets  enjoyment.  Again,  Child,  it  is  one 
thing  to  live  in  My  grace,  and  another  to  be  aware 
that  thou  art  living  in  My  grace.  The  one  consti- 
tutes thy  true  felicity;  the  other  adds  nothing  to 
thy  felicity,  except  a sensible  delight. 

Now,  of  this  agreeable  and  delightful  knowledge, 
in  which  there  is  no  merit,  I do  sometimes  affec- 
tionately deprive  a soul,  that  she  may  be  manfully 
trained  to  sanctity  and  be  made  perfect  in  love  for 
Me.  This  is  the  highest  purity  of  love:  to  strug- 
gle for  love  by  means  of  love,  whilst  thou  feelest 
not  the  love  through  which  and  for  which  thou  art 
contending. 

Be  not  anxious,  therefore,  My  Child,  to  persuade 
thyself  that  thou  livest  in  my  grace.  For  thou 
wouldst  labor  in  vain  to  obtain  for  thyself  that 
which,  for  the  present,  I do  not  wish  thee  to  have. 

1 seek  and  love  thy  true  good,  rather  than  thy 
sensible  delight;  and  this  privation  I know  to  be 
truly  useful  to  thee,  in  order  that,  when  thou  find- 
est,  in  sensible  things,  no  support  whereon  either 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


493 


to  stand  or  to  lean,  thou  mayst  repose,  outside  of 
what  is  sensible,  in  Me  alone,  the  unchangeable 
Good. 

Wherefore,  Child,  as  much  as  thou  canst,  turn 
thyself  to  Me,  away  from  the  troubles  which  thou 
feelest;  throw  thyself  on  My  Heart,  re-affirming 
ever  the  same,  that,  for  love  of  Me,  thou  art  willing 
to  do  in  all  things  the  good  pleasure  of  My  Heart. 

After  this,  perform  gently  whatsoever  thou  hast 
to  do,  and  omit  none  of  thy  accustomed  good  works 
on  account  of  spiritual  desolation. 

So  long  as  the  desolation  besets  thee,  do  not  oc- 
cupy thyself,  under  any  pretense  whatsoever,  with 
troublesome  reflections  about  the  same;  remain 
quiet;  pray;  ever  resign,  ever  give  thyself  up 
to  Me. 

Lastly,  remember  this,  that,  in  this  desolation, 
thou  must  lean  not  upon  any  creature  outside  of 
thyself,  nor  even  upon  thyself,  but  upon  Me  alone. 
Therefore,  the  more  thou  art  able  to  leave  thyself, 
to  turn  thyself  away  from  thyself,  to  cling  to  My 
Heart,  yea,  to  lose  and  forget  thyself  therein,  the 
better  it  will  be  for  thee. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Benediction,  and 
praise,  and  glory  be  to  Thy  Heart,  O Lord,  because 
Its  goodness  has  moved  Thee  to  teach  me  the  way 
of  life  in  the  midst  of  the  shadow  of  death. 

Yet,  although  I am  so  unworthy  that  I do  not 
even  deserve  to  prostrate  myself  in  the  dust  before 
Thy  feet,  suffer  me,  I beseech  Thee,  to  make 
known  to  Thee  a still  greater  desolation,  an  unut- 
terable torture,  whereby  the  sorrows  of  hell  appear 
sometimes  to  come  upon  me. 

For  I seem,  betimes,  in  some  wonderful  manner 


494 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


to  feel  persuaded,  not  merely  that  I am  deprived 
of  Thy  grace,  but  even  that  I have  been  cast  away 
by  Thee,  and,  therefore,  that  hell  is  my  home, 
which  I try  in  vain  to  escape. 

I should  not  dare  to  make  known  to  Thee,  Lord 
God,  this  great  wretchedness  of  mine,  did  not  my 
extreme  misery  compel  me  to  lay  open  before  Thee 
the  abyss,  the  depth  whereof  I know  not. 

7.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — This  is  enough,  My  Child; 
it  shows  sufficiently  what  thou  dost  experience. 

Attend  to  this  above  all  other  things,  Child,  be- 
ware of  this  beyond  everything  else,  that  thou  be 
not  discomposed,  how  great  soever  may  be  thy 
desolateness. 

Behold!  what  thou  sufferest,  the  Saints  them- 
selves have  suffered,  who,  having  become  most 
perfectly  assimilated  to  Me,  have  in  this  manner 
altogether  died  to  themselves,  and,  as  new  crea- 
tures, have  solely  lived  for  Me. 

Believe,  and  hope,  and  love  purely,  My  Child: 
lo!  now  is  the  time  to  practice  pure  virtues,  to 
elicit  heroic  acts. 

Be  not  downhearted:  that  which  seems  death,  is 
a hidden  life;  that  which  now  appears  destruction 
will,  in  the  end,  be  found  to  be  a renewal. 

But  from  what  thou  sufferest,  learn  thou,  Child, 
how  great  is  the  kindness  of  My  Heart,  whereby 
I preserve  thee  from  experiencing  in  reality  ever- 
lasting reprobation;  since  thou  feelest  that  the 
mere  thought  of  it  exceeds  all  the  sufferings  of  life. 

Hence,  also,  infer  how  justly  thou  art  bound  to 
love  Me  in  return  without  measure,  since  by  Me 
thou  hast  been  preserved  from  an  immeasurable 
misfortune. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


495 


8.  Now,  observe,  My  Child,  that  it  is  the  demon 
who,  by  his  suggestions,  causes  thee  to  doubt  about 
My  truth,  when  I assert  that  I will  the  salvation  of 
all  men:  that  it  is  the  demon  who  sets  thee  on  to 
distrust  My  mercy,  in  which  they  that  hope  shall 
not  be  put  to  confusion,  from  which  they  that  ask 
do  receive:  that  it  is  the  demon  who  stirs  thee  up 
not  to  think  kindly  of  Me,  whilst  yet,  with  an  infi- 
nite love,  I ordain  all  things  for  thy  everlasting 
happiness. 

It  is  from  the  devil  that  come  all  things  which 
of  themselves  are  evil, — never  from  Me,  who  do 
not  try  any  one  in  this  manner. 

Whatsoever  the  devil  may  put  into  thy  thoughts, 
leave  it  to  him;  neither  do  thou  dispute  nor  deal 
with  him  in  anywise. 

Be  simply,  and  continue  quietly  resigned  to  the 
divine  Will;  and,  even  if,  on  account  of  the  great- 
ness of  thy  spiritual  desolation,  thou  appearest  not 
wholly  conformed  to  the  divine  good  pleasure,  do 
not  trouble  thyself,  nor  make  thyself  uneasy;  but 
throw  thyself,  without  anxiety,  on  My  Heart,  and 
repeat:  God,  my  Saviour,  Thy  Will  be  done  in  my 
regard,  in  time  and  in  eternity. 

It  is  impossible,  My  Child,  that  he,  who  thus 
intrusts  himself  to  the  divine  Will  should  perish. 
Sooner  shall  heaven  and  earth  pass  away,  than  that 
he  be  lost,  who  gives  himself  up,  without  reserve, 
to  the  divine  good  pleasure. 

For  the  rest,  be  of  good  cheer,  Child  of  My 
Heart,  generously  endure  this  martyrdom,  with 
which  the  Disciples  most  dear  to  My  Heart  are 
honored,  and  which  secures  an  unfading  palm 
and  an  everlasting  crown. 


496 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus!  O Thou 
my  last  refuge!  what  shall  I say  to  all  this?  Be- 
hold! comforted,  and  disconsolate  at  the  same  time 
X cannot  give  utterance  to  what  I feel:  but  Thou 
seest  into  my  heart. 

By  Thy  own  supreme  desolateness,  Lord  Jesus, 
save  Thou  my  soul,  for  which  Thou  hast  endured 
torments,  so  numerous  and  so  excessive. 

As  much  as  I am  able,  I intrust  myself  wholly 
to  Thee:  I surrender  myself  altogether  to  the  care 
of  Thy  Heart:  Thy  Will  be  done  in  my  regard  in 
time  and  in  eternity. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

THAT  JESUS  ACCOMPLISHING  ALL  UPON  THE  CROSS, 

TEACHES  US  TO  ACCOMPLISH,  IN  LIKE  MANNER, 

ALL  THINGS  UPON  THE  CROSS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — Behold,  My  Child,  at  last 
I completed  the  work  which  My  Father  gave  Me  to 
do. 

Having  come  down  from  the  highest  heaven  to 
run  my  way,  lo!  I have  finished  My  career. 

I now  finish  a life  made  up  of  labors,  and  sor- 
rows, and  ceaseless  sacrifices:  the  pains  of  all  these 
are  now  brought  to  a close,  but  the  merits  and 
fruits  of  them  endure  forever. 

The  irreparable  ruin  of  Satan’s  kingdom  is  con- 
summated, and  he  himself,  the  prince  of  this  world, 
is  despoiled  of  his  dominions  and  cast  out. 

My  kingdom^ — which  I have  acquired  by  My 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


497 


own  Blood,  to  which  I have  given  success  by  the 
very  love  of  My  Heart,  which  I have  strengthened 
by  every  means  unto  a lasting  stability  and  secur- 
ity, so  that  thereof  there  shall  be  no  end, — stands 
firm. 

Whatsoever  existed  from  the  beginning  as  types 
of  Me,  whatsoever  has  been  written  concerning  Me, 
now  sees  its  end:  behold!  now  is  the  time  that 
transgression  may  be  finished,  that  sin  may  receive 
an  end,  that  iniquity  may  be  abolished,  and  ever- 
lasting justice  may  be  brought. 

Naught  remains  undone,  naught  remains  to  be 
suffered:  all  is  consummated.  Now,  I will  die  with 
My  Heart  satisfied. 

Here  pause,  My  Child,  and  attend  where  I have 
consummated  all  things.  Behold!  I persevere  upon 
the  cross.  Consider,  and  act  according  to  the  model 
that  was  showed  to  thee  on  the  mountain. 

2.  If  now  thou  hast  learnt  the  sentiments  of  My 
Heart,  and  hast  put  on  the  same,  thou  wilt  not  de- 
sire to  live,  thou  wilt  not  desire  to  die,  except  fast- 
ened to  the  cross. 

For  no  other  road  than  the  one  whereon  I 
have  journeyed  is  given  under  heaven  to  men,  to 
become  Saints,  and  to  be  saved. 

O if  thou  knewest  what  good  things  for  the  pres- 
ent and  the  future  life  thou  mightst  procure  for  thy- 
self, by  lovingly  continuing  on  the  cross;  assur- 
edly, like  Myself,  thou  shouldst  not  be  willing,  of 
thyself,  to  come  down  therefrom. 

It  is  much  safer,  it  is  much  better,  in  every  re- 
spect, to  persevere  on  the  cross,  for  love  of  Me, 
than,  of  thy  own  accord,  to  free  thyself  from  the 
cross. 


498 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


My  Child,  if  thou  didst  know  the  value  and  the 
reward  of  tribulations,  thou  wouldst  deem  this  life 
too  short  for  suffering,  but  eternity  long  enough  to 
enjoy  the  recompense. 

3.  If  thou  desirest  to  persevere  with  ease  in  af- 
flictions, do  not  reflect  upon  the  years,  the  months, 
nor  even  the  weeks  during  which  they  may  last: 
but  think  of  the  present  day,  as  if  it  were  to  be  the 
last,  and,  as  if  thou  shouldst  have  nothing  more  to 
suffer,  and  to  merit  thereafter. 

Blessed  they  that,  amid  their  tribulations,  are 
more  anxious  to  render  themselves  alike  to  Me 
than  to  free  themselves  therefrom!  These  are  they 
that,  by  the  purest  love,  perfect  themselves  in 
union  with  Me. 

Look  at  the  example  of  the  Saints,  who,  despis- 
ing everything  that  was  merely  self,  sought  Me 
with  such  purity,  were  inflamed  with  such  ardor  to 
conform  themselves  to  Me,  that  they  longed,  some 
either  to  suffer  or  to  die;  others,  not  to  die  but  to 
suffer. 

Nor  were  they  satisfied  to  suffer  those  things 
only  which  divine  Providence  meted  out  to  them; 
but,  moved  by  My  Spirit,  they  assumed  voluntary 
mortifications  and  labors,  and,  in  their  fervor,  they 
were  ever  urged  onward  to  perfect  themselves  in 
Me  by  love. 

4.  Examine  and  try  all  things,  My  Child,  thou 
wilt  at  last  be  obliged  to  come  back  to  this  truth, 
that  the  spiritual,  the  interior  life  is  reduced  to 
this,  that  thou  do  constantly  sacrifice  the  inclina- 
tion and  aversion  of  nature  for  love  of  Me,  in  order 
to  live  by  My  Spirit. 

And  this  thou  must  do.  so  long  as  life  endures. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


499 


For,  so  long  as  thou  livest,  thou  art  man,  and  there- 
fore, prone  and  liable  to  evil;  nor  canst  thou,  other- 
wise than  by  striving  and  using  thy  endeavors,  shun 
what  is  evil  and  imperfect,  and  do  what  is  good  and 
perfect. 

Thus,  generously  to  go  counter  to  nature,  and  to 
follow  grace  for  love  of  Me;  this  is  the  spirit  of 
the  Saints. 

5.  If  thou  art  wise,  My  Child,  thou  wilt  desire 
no  other  reward  in  this  life  for  the  things  which 
thou  sufferest  than  a greater  love  for  Me,  and  more 
abundant  grace  to  suffer  for  My  sake. 

Thy  afflictions  shall  never  equal  Mine:  I,  however, 
persevered  in  them  until  I consummated  My  life, 
that  thou  mightst  learn  to  continue  in  thine,  so 
long  as  it  is  the  Will  of  the  divine  good  pleasure. 

Be  ashamed,  My  Child,  for  that  thou  art,  some- 
times, so  silly  as  even  to  think  of  forsaking  Me 
upon  the  cross. 

If  thou  lovest  Me  for  My  own  sake,  thou  wilt 
under  no  circumstance  depart  from  Me.  But  if 
thou  lovest  Me  for  thyself,  no  wonder  that,  while 
trouble  besets  thee,  thou  darest  to  wish  for  what  is 
to  thee  more  agreeable. 

A hireling  cares  not  so  much  for  his  master  as 
for  his  own  self:  and  he  finds  no  difficulty  in  leav- 
ing a master  whom  he  must  serve  with  hard  labor, 
and  without  an  immediate  advantage. 

Yet  thou  didst  not  receive  the  slavish  spirit  of  a 
hireling,  but  a nobler  spirit,  the  spirit  of  a Child; 
that  where  I am,  thou  also  mayst  be. 

Take  heed,  lest  thou  grow  degenerate  in  spirit: 
persevere  with  Me,  determined  rather  to  die  at  thy 
post,  than  to  abandon  the  same. 


5°° 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


6.  What  shall  it  avail  thee  to  have  suffered  much 
for  My  sake,  unless  thou  perfect  it  by  perse- 
verance ? 

If,  hitherto,  thou  hast  followed  Me  amid  tribu- 
lations, rejoice  thou,  My  Child;  yet,  at  the  same 
time,  remember,  not  he  that  begins,  but  he  that 
perseveres,  will  be  saved.  A reward  is,  indeed, 
promised  to  them  that  begin,  but  it  is  given  to  them 
that  persevere. 

To  stimulate  thee  to  perseverance,  frequently 
place  before  thy  eyes  that  everlasting  reward  which 
awaits  thee  among  the  Saints,  and  which  far  ex- 
ceeds all  present  tribulation. 

Pray  much,  My  Child,  that  thou  mayst  not  be 
disheartened,  nor  lose  the  crown  prepared  for  thee. 
So  long  as  thou  prayest  well,  thou  wilt  continue 
well. 

Finally,  Child,  be  ever  mindful  of  My  example, 
and  of  My  presence:  daily  renew  thy  resolve,  and 
strengthen  thy  heart,  to  abide  with  Me.  Thus  thou 
shalt  pass  through  each  successive  day,  and  come, 
at  last,  to  a final  and  blissful  consummation. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet 
Jesus!  by  the  merits  of  Thy  passion,  bv  the  merits 
of  all  the  Saints  that  clung  so  faithfully  to  Thee, 
grant  me  to  persevere  with  Thee  unto  the  end. 

I am,  indeed,  desirous  and  anxious  to  remain 
with  Thee  on  the  cross,  and  to  consummate  all  with 
Thee  thereon:  but  I know  and  feel  that  my  powers 
are  insufficient  for  this. 

Strengthen  and  inspire  me,  therefore,  I beseech 
Thee,  with  that  grace  which  the  Saints  have  found 
fully  sufficient  to  accomplish  it;  that  I may  per- 
fect myself  upon  the  cross,  as  a holocaust  to  Thee 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


5CI 

for  an  odor  of  sweetness,  and  for  the  everlasting 
salvation  of  my  soul. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

THAT  JESUS  COMMENDING  HIS  SPIRIT  INTO  THE 

HANDS  OF  HIS  FATHER,  TEACHES  US  HOW  WE 

MUST  WHOLLY  GIVE  UP  OURSELVES  TO  HIM. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Children,  yet  a little 
while  am  I with  you,  until,  all  things  being  now 
consummated,  the  love  itself  of  My  Heart  be  con- 
summated. 

Behold,  Child,  nothing  now  is  left  to  Me  except 
My  Spirit,  for,  not  only  affectively,  but  also  effec- 
tively, My  Heart  has  sacrificed  all  the  rest  as  a 
holocaust. 

Although  My  soul  was  ever  in  the  hands  cf  My 
Father,  and  voluntarily  consecrated  to  Him  from 
the  beginning;  now,  however,  in  order  to  complete 
the  excess  of  My  love,  I sacrifice,  I lay  down  the 
same.  No  one  takes  It  away  from  Me,  but  I of 
Myself  lay  It  down. 

In  this  consummation  of  the  excess  of  Its  love, 
My  Heart,  before  It  expires,  utters  Its  last  words 
for  thee. 

And  that  thou  mayst  understand  of  how  great 
an  importance  they  are,  I did  not  now  sigh,  but  I 
cried  out  with  a loud  voice:  Father,  into  Thy 
•hands  I commend  My  Spirit. 

This  is  the  uttermost  excess  of  humility  and 


5°2 


THE  THIRD  BOOR. 


love,  beyond  which  it  is  not  possible  to  go  in  this 
life;  and  in  this  same  I die. 

In  the  supreme  extremity  of  every  kind  of  sor- 
rows, behold!  I throw  Myself,  entirely  and  com- 
oletely,  into  the  hands  of  My  Father. 

Now  I do  not  say  to  My  Father:  Not  Mine,  but 
Thy  Will  be  done.  For  My  Will  is  no  longer 
Mine  but  that  of  My  Father,  into  whose  hands  I 
have  delivered  the  same. 

2.  My  Child,  receive  thou  with  a special  affection 
these  last  words  of  thy  Saviour,  dying  for  love  of 
thee;  treasure  them  up  in  thy  heart,  and  piously 
meditate  thereon. 

For  they  contain  the  abridgment  and  completion 
of  all  the  things  whichsoever  I have  hitherto  taught 
thee  concerning  the  interior  life,  concerning  virtue 
and  holiness. 

In  them  lie  hidden  the  secrets  of  My  Heart  most 
precious  and  most  useful  to  thee.  Search  thou  into 
them,  Child:  use  them:  but,  above  all,  study  dili- 
gently to  reduce  them  to  practice. 

Wherefore,  as  I commended  My  Spirit  into  the 
hands  of  My  Father,  so  do  thou  intrust  thy  spirit 
into  My  hands. 

If  thou  do  this,  thou  wilt  cease  altogether  to  live 
by  thy  spirit,  and  wilt  begin  so  to  live  by  My  Spirit, 
that  thy  heart,  thy  mind,  thy  all,  will  breathe 
naught  save  My  Spirit. 

Then  thy  will,  now  no  longer  thine,  but  deliv- 
ered up  to  the  divine  Will,  shall  be,  in  some  man- 
ner, one  with  Mine. 

3.  Behold,  My  Child,  the  highest  degree  of  sanc- 
tity in  a life  made  perfect  by  virtues,  when  the  soul 
with  a holy  indifference  toward  everything,  wills  of 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


5°3 


her  own  accord  nothing  further,  but  suffers  Me  to 
will,  to  dispose,  and  to  do  in  her  regard,  and  con- 
cerning all  besides,  as  is  pleasing  to  Me;  whilst  she 
herself  consents  to  My  every  Will  and  ordinance, 
being,  always  and  everywhere,  a nformed  and 
united  to  Me. 

Blessed  the  soul  that  reaches  this  degree!  in  Me 
she  finds  repose  amidst  and  above  all  things:  above 
every  feeling,  above  every  virtue,  above  all  salva- 
tion, above  every  good. 

In  such  a soul,  I so  set  in  order  the  purity  of 
charity,  I so  ravish  her  with  the  love  of  My  Heart, 
that,  far  above  all  things  visible  and  invisible,  she 
is  wholly  Mine  and  I hers. 

When  thou  wilt  have  in  this  manner  delivered 
thyself  entirely  and  completely  to  My  divine  good 
pleasure;  then  shalt  thou,  in  the  most  perfect  man- 
ner, be  free  from  all  vain  fear  and  inordinate  sad- 
ness, from  every  merely  natural  wish  and  desire, 
finally,  from  every  superfluous  care  and  uneasiness. 

Then,  as  it  were,  forgetful  of  thyself  and  of  what 
may  happen  in  the  future,  thou  wilt  look  upon  this 
as  thy  joy,  to  cause  Me  joy  by  doing  My  good 
pleasure.  Provided  My  Heart  be  satisfied,  thine 
will  also  be  contented,  regardless  whether  this  be 
pleasing  or  displeasing  to  nature. 

4.  All  the  Saints  have  excelled  in  this  greatest 
of  virtues:  and  so  highly  did  they  esteem  the  di- 
vine good  pleasure,  and  to  such  a degree  did  they 
cherish  the  same,  that,  in  some  manner,  forgetting 
themselves,  they  preferred  it  above  all  things. 

Imitate  the  Saints,  My  Child,  if  thou  wilt  be  a 
Saint,  or  desirest  to  reign  with  the  Saints. 

This  life  of  the  divine  good  pleasure  is  an  image 


S°4 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


of  the  life  in  heaven.  For,  the  inhabitants  of 
heaven,  being  perfectly  satisfied,  each  one  with  his 
own  beatitude,  are,  by  the  same  divine  good  pleas- 
ure, all  rendered  blissful. 

Take  away  this  conformity  to  the  divine  Will, 
and  behold!  the  Interior  life  becomes  a delusion; 
neither  does  there  exist  any  longer  a road  to 
sanctity. 

5.  When  thou  dost  will  and  not  will  the  same 
with  Me  in  all  things,  in  great  as  well  as  in  small, 
in  things  spiritual  as  well  as  in  things  temporal,  in 
adversity  no  less  than  in  prosperity;  finally,  in  life 
as  well  as  in  death;  then  be  glad  and  rejoice,  My 
Child;  because  thou  art  become  a Disciple  accord- 
ing to  My  own  Heart. 

Thou  wilt  now  not  only  offer,  not  merely  resign 
thyself,  and  all  that  is  thine,  to  Me,  that  I may  use 
the  same;  but  of  thy  own  accord  thou  wilt  allow, 
thou  wilt  desire  that  I dispose,  according  to  My 
good  pleasure,  of  thyself  and  of  thine,  of  all  thou 
art,  and  of  all  thou  possessest. 

Deliver,  therefore,  My  Child,  and  leave  to  Me 
thyself  and  whatsoever  is  thine;  and  continue 
faithfully,  even  unto  death,  in  this  surrendering, 
in  this  abandoning  of  thyself  to  the  Will  and  good 
pleasure  of  My  Heart. 

Be  persuaded  that,  if  thou  hast  thus  died  with 
Me,  thou  shalt  also  live  with  Me,  and  reign  among 
the  Saints  in  the  life  never-ending. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O the  sublimity  of 
the  sanctity  of  Thy  Heart,  Lord  Jesus!  However, 
since  Thou  invitest  me  so  urgently,  and  callest  me 
so  gently  thereto,  I must  courageously  strive,  and 
generously  make  bold  to  attain  thereto. 


CHAPTER  XXVI.  505 

Wherefore,  relying  upon  the  power  of  Thy 
grace,  and  animated  by  Thy  example,  behold!  I 
intrust  my  spirit  to  Thy  hands;  to  Thee  I con- 
sign my  spirit,  that  I may  live  by  Thy  Spirit  alone; 
to  Thee  I give  up  my  will  that  I may  move,  act, 
suffer,  die  by  Thy  Will  alone. 

Lo!  I am  wholly  thine;  take  me,  then,  and  dis- 
pose  of  me  always  and  everywhere  according  to  the 
good  pleasure  of  Thy  Heart. 

May  I at  last,  by  a perfect  likeness  to  Thee,  and 
a perfect  union  with  Thee,  become  a perfect  Disci- 
ple of  Thy  Heart! 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

THE  HEART  OF  JESUS,  AFTER  HIS  DEATH  OPENED 

FOR  LOVE  OF  US,  IS  THE  REFUGE  AND  SOLACE 

OF  ALL. 

i.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — See  Jesus  dying 
upon  the  cross!  O spectacle!  O God,  behold  Thy 
Son!  O Mary,  behold  thy  Jesus!  O Angels,  look 
ye  and  weep! 

O saddest  sight,  such  as  never  was  before,  never 
shall  be  again!  Lo!  as  the  Creator  expires  all  cre- 
ation is  moved,  all  mourns.  The  heavens  are  moved, 
hide  their  light  for  grief,  and  wrap  the  world  in 
darkness. 

The  earth  wails,  and  trembles  even  unto  her 
foundations,  and  shakes  and  tears  asunder  the  rocks 
and  stones. 

Religion  weeps,  and,  as  if  for  a sign  of  grief, 


S°6 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


rends  her  garment,  when  the  vail  of  the  temple  is 
rent  in  two  from  the  top  even  to  the  bottom. 

Death  itself  is  moved,  and  as  if  sorrowing  for  its 
deed,  suffers  the  dead  to  arise.  Behold,  the  tombs 
are  opened,  and  many  bodies  come  forth. 

All  nature  in  a pang,  the  whole  universe  laments 
for  Jesus  dying  upon  the  cross  between  heaven  and 
earth. 

O spectacle!  Jesus,  the  Son  of  God,  died  in  tor- 
ments for  love  of  us!  O everlasting  memorial  of 
the  love  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus! 

2.  But,  behold!  one  of  the  soldiers,  with  a spear, 
opened  His  Side,  and  immediately  there  issued 
forth  Blood  and  water.  New  miracle  of  love; 
manifold  mystery! 

The  Heart  of  Jesus  is  opened  that  thence  may 
be  formed  His  only  one,  His  perfect  one,  His  Vir- 
gin Spouse,  the  Holy  Church. 

Blood  and  water  issue  forth:  Blood,  that  re- 
deems; Water,  that  cleanses  souls.  The  Water 
flows,  that,  by  the  laver  of  Baptism,  men  may  be 
born  again  into  the  Church:  the  Blood  flows,  that, 
by  the  fruit  of  His  Heart,  the  most  Holy  Sacra- 
ment, they  may  be  perfected  in  the  Church. 

Jesus  willed  that  His  Heart  should  be  opened, 
to  show  us,  that,  even  after  the  end  of  His  life,  He 
does  by  no  means  cease  to  cherish  us;  and  to  con- 
vince us,  that,  even  after  His  death,  His  Heart  is 
burning  with  love  for  us. 

Finally,  He  willed  that  It  should  be  opened, 
that  we  might  possess  in  His  Heart  a permanent 
place  of  refuge,  solace,  everything  necessary  and 
useful. 

He  willed  that  His  Heart  should  not  merely  be 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


5°7 


wounded,  but  that  It  should  be  opened  and  con- 
tinue open,  that  there  might  ever  be  access,  that 
the  door  might  ever  remain  unclosed,  through 
which  he  that  enters  in  shall  be  saved, — and  he 
shall  go  in,  and  go  out,  and  shall  find  the  pastures 
of  life  everlasting. 

3.  Behold,  then,  through  the  opening  of  the 
Side,  the  innermost  of  His  Heart  is  seen:  that 
great  mystery  of  love  is  revealed:  the  designs  of 
the  mercy  of  our  God  are  unclosed,  whereby  He 
visited  us,  He  the  Orient  from  on  high. 

Jesus  willed  to  retain  forever  the  visible  wound 
of  His  Heart,  whence  the  invisible  wound  of  His 
love  is  made  to  appear,  that  It  may  be  not  only  the 
place  of  refuge  for  mortals,  but  likewise  the  Para- 
dise of  the  Blessed. 

Hence  it  is  that,  from  this  fountain  of  the  Sav- 
iour, men,  upon  earth,  draw  with  joy  the  living 
waters  of  all  gifts  and  graces;  and  the  Angels  and 
Saints,  in  heaven,  obtain  with  exultation  ever-flow- 
ing streams  of  admiration,  and  praise,  and  thanks- 
giving, and  never-ending  love. 

4.  O my  soul!  lift  up  thy  eyes  to  Jesus;  see  thy 
own  Beloved;  view  that  Heart  wounded  by  love 
opened  b>  love. 

Behold,  the  opened  breast  displays  the  affections 
of  His  Heart;  the  Wound  proves  to  what  an  extent 
that  Heart  cherishes  thee. 

The  whole  appearance  shows  that  Jesus,  thy  Be* 
loved  above  all,  is  truly  meek  and  humble  of  Heart. 

The  Heart  of  thy  Jesus,  behold!  is  open;  It  is 
opened  that  thou  mayst  draw  near  and  enter  there- 
in; that  to  Him  thou  mayst  give  and  deliver  up 
thy  heart. 


THE  THIRD  BOOK. 


508 

5.  Behold  the  unfathomable  abyss  of  goodness; 
who  shall  measure  the  same?  who  shall  compre- 
hend its  depth  and  breadth?  Neither  man  nor 
Angel  shall  ever  comprehend  its  bounds. 

Who  among  the  unfortunate  can  dread  to  ap- 
proach the  Heart  of  Him  who  died  for  love  of  the 
unfortunate;  yea,  who  even  keeps  His  Heart  open, 
that  to  all  the  wretched  there  may  be  given  a free 
entrance! 

Gaze  upon  the  heart  of  Jesus,  who  died  for 
thee,  and  His  evident  love,  stronger  than  death, 
more  vigorous  than  life,  all  sweetness,  will  expel 
fear,  will  remove  distrust,  will  cast  aside  faintheart- 
edness, will  arouse  faith,  will  strengthen  hope,  will 
enkindle  love:  and  thou  wilt  go  to  immerse  thyself 
into  this  ocean  of  goodness. 

If  ever  thou  becomest  forgetful  of  the  love  of 
Jesus,  or  doubtest  His  affection,  turn  thyself  to 
Him  and  hearken:  His  wounded  Heart  wTill  cry 
out,  how  He  loves,  how  much  He  cherishes;  and 
will  cry  out  again,  that  thou  shouldst  love  in  re- 
turn, that  thou  shouldst  requite  His  affection. 

If  thou  art  straitened,  if  thou  art  troubled, 
hasten,  run,  to  this  fountain  of  every  grace,  to  this 
gushing  spring  of  all  consolation. 

If  thy  unfaithfulness  frighten  thee,  let  thy  con- 
fidence and  courage  be  cheered  on  by  the  tokens  of 
benignity  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  His  head  bowed 
down,  His  arms  outstretched,  His  Breast  glow- 
ing with  love  for  thee. 

In  every  peril,  in  every  difficulty,  throw  thyself 
confidingly  upon  the  Heart  of  Jesus:  cast  thy 
anxieties  upon  Him,  because  He  has  a care  of 
thee. 


CHAPTER  XXVI.  509 

And  if  thou  hast  done  any  good  action,  if  thou 
hast  gained  any  merit,  hide  it  safely  in  the  Heart 
of  Jesus,  that  this  Sacred  Heart  may  sanctify  the 
same  by  Its  virtue,  may  keep  it  from  the  thief, 
vain  glory;  and  from  the  moth,  self  love;  and  may 
guard  it  for  the  day  of  final  retribution. 

6.  O most  precious,  O most  sweet  wound  of  the 
Heart  of  my  Jesus,  deserving  of  love  above  all  deco- 
rations of  honor;  O Thou  our  resort  before  every 
other  place!  if  out  of  Thee  I take  but  one  draught 
of  love;  I soon  forget  all  my  miseries;  I feel  a dis- 
gust for  things  worldly  and  earthly,  and  I relish 
things  spiritual  and  heavenly, — naught,  except 
Jesus,  and  Him  wounded  by  love,  do  I care  to 
know  and  love. 

O most  sweet  Jesus!  draw  me  to  Thee:  draw 
me  through  the  wound  of  Thy  Breast  to  Thy  divine 
Heart,  that  now  I may  no  longer  live  in  myself,  but 
may  have  fife  in  Thee,  may  five  in  Thy  Heart,  the 
blissful  abode  of  all  the  Saints. 

Grant,  I beseech  Thee,  Oh!  do  grant  that  my 
heart,  wholly  united  with  Thee,  and  possessing 
in  all  things  one  and  the  same  sentiment  with 
Thee,  may  be  forever  closed  to  Thy  enemies,  dead 
to  myself  and  the  world,  ever  open  to  Thee, 
breathing  Thee  alone,  above  all  things  loving 
Thee. 

O Jesus,  Beloved  of  my  soul!  forever  preserve 
me  in  Thy  Heart,  which  is  sweeter  than  every 
sweetness,  and  wherein  I find  all  I can  desire  for 
true  beatitude. 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


1.  The  purpose  of  the  Fourth  Book  is,  to  teach 
the  soul  how  to  unite  herself  with  God  her  Saviour. 
This  is  effected  by  divine  love.  Now,  this  whole 
Book  treats  of  the  divine  love,  its  causes,  its  effects, 
its  various  ways.  These  things,  if  looked  into 
at  their  very  source,  if  considered  in  the  very  Heart 
of  Jesus, — loving,  that  we  may  return  his  love; 
burning  that  we  may  melt;  uniting  Himself  with 
us  that  we  may  unite  ourselves  with  Him,  must 
needs  ravish  our  hearts,  melt  us  wholly,  so  as  to 
oecome,  in  some  manner,  one  with  Him. 

2.  This  life  of  divine  union,  which  is  the  most 
perfect  and  the  most  blissful  portion  of  the  interior 
life,  is  not  to  be  so  understood  as  if  the  souls  that 
live  this  life  ought  no  longer  to  perform  any  ex- 
ercise pertaining  to  the  purificative  or  the  illumin- 
ative life.  The  practices  of  these  three  sorts  of 
lives  are  never,  on  this  earth,  altogether  separated. 
So  long  as  you  live,  to  whatsoever  degree  of  the 
divine  union  you  may  have  attained,  you  shall  al- 
ways have  something  to  do,  in  order  to  cleanse  the 
heart  more  perfectly,  or  to  preserve  it  pure;  you 
shall  always  have  to  practice  virtue,  either  by  doing 
or  by  suffering. 


510 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK.  51 1 

But  this  life  is  to  be  so  understood,  that  the 
soul, — when  duly  cleansed,  and  sufficiently  adorned 
with  genuine  and  solid  virtues,  acquired  by  gener- 
ous acts  of  self-abnegation,  lives  in  intimacy  with 
Jesus  her  God, — enjoying  a certain  holy,  mutual, 
and  unspeakable  familiarity  with  Him,  relishes 
what  He  relishes,  wills  what  He  wills,  dislikes  what 
He  dislikes,  occupies  herself,  meanwhile,  for  the 
most  part,  with  those  exercises,  those  acts,  by  which 
this  union  is  fostered  and  consolidated;  although, 
sometimes,  through  love,  rather  than  any  other 
motive,  she  performs  such  things  as  belong  to  the 
purifying  of  the  interior,  or  the  practicing  of  vir- 
tues. In  like  manner,  souls, — that  labor  for  the 
most  part  to  purify  themselves  interiorly,  or  apply 
themselves,  for  the  most  part,  to  acquire  solidly 
true  virtues, — are  said  to  lead  the  life  of  purifica- 
tion or  of  illumination,  according  as  they  occupy 
themselves  commonly  with  the  one  or  the  other, 
even  if  they  perform,  at  the  same  time,  many  prac- 
tices, which  properly  belong  to  other  parts  of  the 
interior  life. 

And  these  things  are  to  be  carefully  attended  to, 
lest  a person  fall  into  a delusion,  here  particularly 
full  of  danger.  Wherefore,  unless  he  is  willing  to 
be  deceived,  and  to  imperil  himself,  let  no  mortal 
ever  think  that  he  has  not  to  labor  any  further; 
that  he  has  no  longer  anything  to  accomplish. 
Above  all,  let  no  one  ever  believe  that  he  has  no 
longer  anything  to  fear;  that  he  may  freely  expose 
himself  to  danger,  under  this  or  the  like  pretense, 
that  he  is  not  moved  by  any  created  object,  or  that 
he  seeks  or  wills  naught  except  God.  By  such  a 
delusion  they  themselves,  wTho  were  distinguished 


512 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


by  the  name  of  sanctity,  and  the  glory  of  martyr- 
dom, and  glittered  like  stars  in  the  firmament,  have 
shamefully  fallen  into  the  abyss.  From  this  same 
source  of  presumption  other  delusions  flow;  such 
as,  to  neglect  one’s  duties,  or  other  signs  of  God’s 
Will,  for  the  sake  of  quietly  reposing  amid  the  de- 
lights of  divine  favor;  to  seek  rather  the  gifts  of 
the  Lord  than  the  Lord  Himself;  to  desire  things 
which  are  extraordinary. 

3.  When,  therefore,  you  are  in  this  part,  you 
ought  to  direct  everything  to  this,  that  you  do  ever 
more  and  more  love  Jesus,  your  God  and  Sav- 
iour, and  that  you  do,  by  the  purest  love,  unite 
yourself  intimately  with  Him.  Now,  this  love  is 
obtained  by  considering  His  countless  favors,  the 
ineffable  workings  of  the  love  of  His  Heart,  His 
stupendous  and  most  delightful  promises;  lastly, 
all  the  good  things  which  He  prepares  for  you  in 
time  and  in  eternity:  by  contemplating  His  most 
lovely  and  infinite  perfections,  on  account  of  which 
alone  He  is  most  worthy  of  all  possible  love:  finally, 
by  prayer,  by  visits  in  person  or  in  spirit  to  the 
most  Blessed  Sacrament,  by  dealing  devotedly  and 
fervently  with  Him  in  holy  Communion. 

4.  The  method  of  using  this  book  may  be  one 
of  the  four  laid  down  before  the  First  and  Second 
Books.  Of  these,  each  one  may  here  follow  that 
method  which  he  believes  more  useful  for  himself, 
according  to  the  state  of  his  soul;  and  which  he 
will  so  apply  to  the  matter  here  proposed,  as  to 
secure  the  object  of  this  Book. 

However,  it  should  be  carefully  noticed,  as  in 
others,  so  especially  in  this  part  of  the  interior  life, 
that  it  is  by  no  means  proper  so  to  adhere  to  a set- 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK.  513 


tied  manner  or  method,  that  you  do  not  suffer  your- 
self to  be  guided  by  heavenly  grace,  or  by  the 
Spirit  of  God,  who  is  accustomed  frequently, — par- 
ticularly with  regard  to  souls  that,  purified  and  il- 
lumined, take  pains  to  unite  themselves  wholly 
with  God, — to  pass  by  every  mode  or  method,  to 
leave  off  almost  all  processes  of  reasoning,  to  enrap- 
ture the  heart,  to  raise  it  up  into  His  admir- 
able light,  and  to  affect  it  in  an  unutterable 
manner. 

The  affections,  to  which  it  is  here  proper  to  give 
yourself  up,  and  the  acts  which  you  ought  to  ex- 
cite, are  chiefly  these: 

0/  gratitude , or  of  thanksgiving  for  the  gifts  and 
graces  granted  to  yourself  and  to  others:  yea,  also, 
for  the  glory,  the  beatitude,  and  the  perfection  of 
the  Lord  our  God;  as  the  Church  teaches  us  by 
her  example,  when  she  says:  We  thank  Thee  for 
Thy  own  great  glory. 

Of  joy , on  account  of  His  mercy,  His  liberality. 
His  love  toward  yourself,  and  all  other  creatures:  on 
account  of  His  perfections  in  themselves;  on  ac- 
count of  His  honor,  and  blissfulness,  and  joy. 

Of  confidence  in  the  goodness  of  His  Heart,  in 
His  care,  in  His  Providence. 

Of  admiration,  on  account  of  the  magnitude  and 
the  multitude  of  the  blessings  bestowed  upon  your- 
self and  others,  the  works  of  divine  love,  His  in- 
finite perfections. 

Of  praise,  so  as  to  extol  His  marvellous  works, 
now  alone  by  yourself,  now  in  union  with  the 
Church;  again  by  inviting  all  creatures,  and  again 
by  associating  yourself  with  the  Saints  and  Angels 
in  heaven. 


514  DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 

Of  zeal , foi  his  honor  and  glory,  and  for  the 
salvation  and  perfection  of  souls,  for  His  sake. 

Of  humility , so  as  to  remember  and  acknowledge 
that  you  are  worthless,  but  that  God  is  generous, 
since  He  pours  out  for  you  the  treasures  of  His 
Heart. 

Of  filial  love , whereby  you  are  filled  with  a holy 
dread  of  offending  the  Lord;  whereby  you  lovingly 
grieve  for  the  offenses  with  which  His  Heart  has 
been  saddened  by  yourself  and  others. 

Of  pure  love , whereby  you  give,  surrender,  and 
sacrifice  yourself  and  all  you  possess,  to  Him ; 
whereby  you  conform  yourself  in  all  things  to  His 
Will  and  good  pleasure;  whereby,  finally,  you  live 
uniform,  completely  united  with  Him. 

But  these  and  other  acts,  as  elsewhere,  so  espe- 
cially are  they  here  to  be  made  in  such  a manner, 
that,  so  long  as  you  can  usefully  occupy  yourself 
with  one,  you  do  by  no  means  pass  over  to  another; 
but  continue  to  entertain  yourself  sweetly  and  de- 
voutly with  the  same,  until  either  the  time  of  prayer 
is  past,  or  the  Spirit  of  grace  leads  you  to  others; 
but  if,  whilst  you  endeavor  affectionately  and  qui- 
etly to  adhere  to  one  act  or  affection,  you  find  that 
you  can  no  longer  apply  yourself  to  it,  pass  over 
to  some  other,  suggested  either  by  the  wants  of 
your  soul,  your  own  devotion,  or  the  Spirit  of 
grace. 

Lastly,  suffer  yourself  freely  to  be  led  by  the 
Spirit  of  the  Lord  to  whatever  is  good,  whether  to 
meditation,  or  to  contemplation;  to  deal  with  Him 
by  means  of  the  affections,  or  to  repose  in  His 
presence;  to  hold  converse  with  Him,  or  to  hearken 
to  Him;  to  ask  or  to  give.  Neither  use  any 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK.  515 

efforts  to  remain  actually  conscious  of  your  occu- 
pations in  prayer. 

5.  The  rules,  which  do  properly  belong  here,  for 
the  discernment  of  spirits,  inasmuch  as  they  are 
quite  nice  and  delicate,  must  be  well  learnt  and  un- 
derstood, so  that  they  may  be  applied  with  profit. 
The  Saints  teach  us  the  following: 

The  first . There  is  a twofold  divine  union,  with 
a consummation  of  the  same:  the  first  is  called 
active;  the  second,  passive  union. 

The  active  union  consists  in  the  perfect  uniformity 
of  our  will  with  the  divine  Will.  This  is  the 
whole  perfection  of  divine  love.  Through  this 
union  the  sentiments  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus  are  our 
sentiments,  the  Spirit  of  Jesus  is  our  spirit,  the  life 
of  Jesus  our  fife.  Hence,  sweetly  united  with 
Jesus,  we  enjoy  Him  constantly,  and  we  are  truly 
made  blissful. 

The  passive  union,  on  the  other  hand,  consists  in 
this,  that,  by  the  abundance  of  light  and  love  poured 
in,  the  faculties  are  suspended;  so  that  the  memory 
does  not  remember,  the  intellect  does  not  think,  the 
will  does  not  love,  except  the  Lord  God;  the  whole 
soul  being  so  absorbed  by  the  divine  object,  that 
she  does  not  perceive  this  state  of  suspension.  This 
union,  replenished  with  marvellous  and  most  de- 
lightful gifts,  is,  generally,  each  time  of  short 
duration,  nor  is  it  wont  to  last  an  hour.  Hence, 
during  the  intervals,  the  soul  should  be  occupied 
and  content  with  the  active  union. 

Every  one  may  attain  to  the  active  union  by 
faithfulness  to  the  grace  which  is  given  him;  but 
no  human  industry — the  divine  goodness  alone — • 
can  raise  the  soul  to  the  passive  union. 


5l6 


DIRECTORY  FOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


The  consummation  of  the  divine  union  consists 
in  this,  that  the  soul  united  with  the  Lord,  is,  in 
some  manner,  so  transformed  into  the  divine  object 
of  her  love,  that,  the  faculties  being  neither  sus- 
pended nor  impeded,  she  herself,  habitually,  pla- 
cidly, and  sweetly  enjoys  her  Lord;  being  wTholly, 
in  a wonderful  and  delightful  manner,  absorbed  as 
it  were,  in  Him,  and,  nevertheless,  exceedingly 
well-disposed  both  to  action  and  to  contempla- 
tion. 

The  second.  It  is  a safer  way  to  long  and  seek 
after  the  active  union,  rather  than  the  passive,  or 
the  things  which  are  sometimes  vouchsafed  in  the 
passive,  such  as  visions,  revelations,  and  similar 
communications.  It  may  happen  that  souls  that 
live  in  the  active  union,  have  much  more  merit  than 
those  to  whom  the  passive  union  is  granted;  be- 
cause they  do  and  endure  greater  and  more  gener- 
ous things  for  the  Lord,  and  they  are  satisfied,  ac- 
cording to  the  divine  good  pleasure,  to  be  deprived 
of  those  consolations, — given  to  others,  but  not  to 
themselves,  in  the  present  life, — which  they  will 
receive  when  more  sweetly  and  more  abundantly 
bestowed  in  the  life  to  come. 

The  third.  Let  the  soul,  in  order  to  move  and  in- 
cite herself  to  do  and  bear  great  and  noble  things 
for  the  Lord,  acknowledge  and  confess  that  she  has 
received  and  does  receive  many  and  great  things 
from  the  Lord;  not  that  she  may  deem  herself  bet- 
ter than  others,  but  that  she  may  serve  Him 
with  more  generosity  and  perfection.  Wherefore, 
let  her  reject,  as  coming  not  from  the  good  but  from 
the  evil  spirit,  every  thought,  every  emotion,  which, 
under  any  pretense  whatever,  leads  her  to  com- 


DIRECTORY  EOR  THE  FOURTH  BOOK.  517 

plaints  about  her  misery,  to  dejection  of  heart,  or 
pusillanimousness. 

The  fourth.  Whatsoever  outpourings  of  the  divine 
goodness  the  soul  may  receive,  howsoever  intimately 
she  may  be  united  with  God,  how  much  soever  she 
may  even  be  made  perfect  in  the  Supreme  Good, 
she  ought  ever  to  remember  that  she  is  not  impec- 
cable, but  that  she  may  still  perish, — unless  she  be 
faithful  to  the  Lord.  And,  therefore,  the  more  and 
the  greater  favors  she  receives,  the  more  humble  it 
behooves  her  to  be,  and  the  more  purely  should 
she  love  God.  Hence,  if  she  be  moved  to  rely 
upon  the  long  duration  of  her  virtuous  life,  or  the 
firmness  of  her  good  resolves,  or  the  solidity  of  her 
virtue,  in  order  to  expose  herself  to  dangers,  let  her 
know  that  she  is  moved  by  the  evil,  not  the  good 
Spirit. 

The  fifth.  Matters  which  lead  or  call  you  away 
from  the  Catholic  faith, — such  as  some  instigations 
and  communications, — should  be  carefully  and 
powerfully  rejected,  as  the  effects  of  the  evil  soirit. 
Those,  on  the  contrary,  which  are  consistent  with 
the  Catholic  faith,  and  serve  to  unite  the  soul  with 
her  Lord  and  God,  may  be  received  with  humble 
thankfulness,  as  fruits  of  the  good  Spirit;  and  they 
may  even  be  asked  humbly  and  resignedly,  with 
the  intention  that  the  soul  may  increase  in  the  love 
of  God,  ar.d  become  more  perfectly  united  with 
Him. 

The  sixth.  When  it  is  known  that,  by  means  of 
the  communications  received,  the  soul  becomes 
more  and  more  dead  to  herself,  is  animated  with 
desire  of  greater  perfection,  and  advances  in  the 
love  of  God.  it  is  a sign  that  they  come  from  the 


518  directory  for  the  fourth  book. 

good  Spirit.  But  when  it  is  perceived  that,  in  con- 
sequence of  these  communications,  the  soul  becomes 
inclined  to  gratify  corrupt  nature,  or  loses  the 
hunger  and  thirst  after  greater  perfection,  or  that 
with  a sort  of  stubbornness  she  wants  to  defend  or 
hold  the  communications  as  divine,  although  the 
director  of  her  conscience  does  not  believe  so,  or  is 
in  doubt  about  it,  it  is  a sign  that  they  come  from 
the  evil  spirit. 

The  seventh.  The  soul  should  not  desire  visions 
or  revelations,  nor  place  her  perfection  and  sanc- 
tity in  having  them.  Let  her  remember  that, 
through  them,  several  have  been  deceived  and  have 
fallen  into  the  greatest  danger.  If  she  experiences 
a longing  after  them,  let  her  believe,  without  a 
doubt,  that  it  has  been  suggested  or  excited  by  the 
evil  spirit,  and  let  her  check  and  expel  the  same. 

The  eighth . The  more  eagerly  extraordinary 
things  of  this  kind  are  coveted,  the  greater  danger 
they  present,  that  the  soul  may  be  deluded,  and 
led  away  from  the  true  path  of  sanctity,  which 
Jesus — the  meek  and  humble  of  Heart — has  indi- 
cated, and  which  the  Saints  follow. 

St.  Ignat.  St.  Alphonsus  Blessed  Margaret  Mary. 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


ADMONITIONS  HELPFUL  TOWARD  UNIT- 
ING ONE’S  SELF  WITH  THE  HEART  OF 
JESUS  IN  BLISS. 


CHAPTER  I. 

THE  MOST  BLESSED  SACRAMENT  OE  THE  EUCHA- 
RIST IS  AN  INVENTION  OF  THE  LOVE  OF  THE 

MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — I was  dead,  My  Child, 
and  behold  I am  living  for  evermore. 

I had  come  forth  from  the  Father,  and  had  come 
into  the  world:  at  last  I was  leaving  the  world  to 
return  to  the  Father. 

However,  the  love  of  My  Heart  did  not  allow 
nor  suffer  that  I should  leave  them  orphans,  whom 
I cherished  more  than  My  own  life. 

The  love  of  My  father  called  and  invited  Me, 
that,  coming,  I might  be  glorified  with  Him,  with 
the  glory  which  I had  with  Him  before  the  world 
was  created. 

The  love  of  men  also  invited  and  urged  Me  on, 
that,  staying  among  them,  I might  comfort  them 
amidst  all  the  troubles  of  life. 


5i9 


S2° 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


And  behold!  My  Heart  invented  a means  of  sat- 
isfying both  My  love  for  My  Father,  and  My  Love 
for  men. 

A mystery,  My  Child,  that  going  up  into  heaven 
I may  be  seated  at  the  right  of  the  Father,  and  abide 
with  you  even  to  the  consummation  of  the  world. 

A mystery,  which,  unless  I Myself  had  drawn  it 
forth  from  My  Heart,  no  mortal  could  ever  have 
imagined:  a mystery  which  transcends  all  created 
nature:  a mystery,  in  fine,  which  exceeds  all  finite 
power. 

There  is  need,  therefore,  of  stupendous  miracles, 
to  be  wrought  by  divine  omnipotence  alone.  But 
love  triumphs:  love,  wdiich  in  My  divine  Heart 
found  the  design,  there  also  found  the  powder  of  ex 
ecuting  the  same. 

All  things  are  possible,  all  things  are  easy,  if  ) 
will  them  in  My  Heart,  whose  Will  is  powrer  and 
execution. 

2.  As  men  were  not  able  to  bear  the  sight  of  My 
glorified  Majesty,  and  the  world  could  not  subsist 
in  the  effulgence  of  such  a brightness;  regard  wras 
to  be  had  to  their  weakness,  lest,  alarmed  at  the 
splendor  of  My  greatness,  they  might  be  kept 
away.  Wherefore,  I must  needs  conceal  My  daz- 
zling glory,  and  display  naught  that  might  fill  them 
with  dread. 

Moreover,  My  Child,  since  thou  hast  here  no 
permanent  city,  but  lookest  for  one  to  come,  it  is 
expedient  for  thee,  that  I do  abide  with  thee  under 
another  form;  lest,  forgetting  that  thou  art  a pil- 
grim on  earth,  thou  be  walling  to  make  here  thy 
abode,  and  cling  to  the  things  of  the  present;  but 
that,  mindful  of  thy  place  cf  exile,  thou  mays! 


CHAPTER  I. 


521 


aspire  to  thy  country,  where  thou  shalt  be  able, 
with  face  unvailed,  to  gaze  upon  My  glory. 

Lastly,  since  this  life  is  short,  and  after  it  there 
shall  be  no  longer  any  time  to  gain  merits,  it  is 
good  and  most  useful  that  I hide  My  countenance, 
that  thus  thou  mavst  have  a greater  opportunity  of  re- 
ducing to  practice  faith,  as  well  as  all  other  virtues. 

3.  If  for  so  many  reascis  it  is  advantageous  that 
I dwell  henceforth  in  another  form  among  men 
upon  earth:  from  among  all  possible  forms  that 
one  should  be  chosen,  which  is  best  suited  to  My 
Heart,  and  most  profitable  to  men. 

Now,  My  Child,  since  I came  down  to  men,  that 
they  might  have  spiritual  life,  and  since  I stay  in 
their  midst  that  they  may  have  it  more  abundantly; 
and  as  the  spiritual  fife  bears  in  every  way  a resem- 
blance to  the  material  life,  wdiich  is  sustained  and 
strengthened  by  natural  food;  they  need  a super- 
natural food,  whereby  the  life  of  the  spirit  may  be 
preserved,  may  grow  in  solidity,  and  flourish  ever 
more  and  more. 

It  is  better,  therefore,  that  I remain  under  the 
appearance  of  food,  since  I am  not  only  the  Bread 
of  life,  but  Life  itself.  For  how~  much  more  abun- 
dantly will  the  faithful  soul  have  fife,  if  she  be 
nourished  with  Life  itself? 

Besides,  Child,  My  Heart  is  love:  but  love  is  the 
gift  of  one’s  self,  and  does  not  rest  until  it  has  given 
and  united  itself  to  the  object  beloved. 

Now,  as  in  the  life  of  nature,  naught  is  more  in- 
timately united  than  food  and  the  one  that  takes  it; 
so  also  in  the  spiritual  life,  by  the  gift  of  My  love, 
the  greatest  and  most  intimate  union  occurs  between 
the  soul  and  Myself. 


522 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


This  is  that  divine  and  beatific  union,  whereby  I 
can  render  every  soul  blissful:  the  work  of  a bound- 
less love. 

Finally,  I am  pleased  to  stay  among  men  under  the 
form  of  a banquet,  which  is  a token  of  the  greatest 
friendship,  in  order  that,  even  upon  earth,  the 
faithful  may  rejoice  in  My  supernal  fellowship, 
which  the  Blessed  in  heaven  enjoy;  and  that  they 
may  recall  with  delight  that  never-ending  bliss, 
wherein  I dispose  to  you  a kingdom,  that  you  may 
eat  and  drink  at  My  table,  and  where,  girding  My- 
self and  going  about,  I will  minister  to  you. 

This  will  be  the  union  everlasting,  and  thriliingly 
blissful, — the  Passover  of  never-ending  joy, — the 
wine  of  eternal  love,  which  I will  drink  with  you 
ever  new  in  the  kingdom  of  My  Father. 

4.  In  order  that  men  might  gradually  be  pre- 
pared for  mysteries  so  great,  I willed  that,  in  many 
ways,  all  this  should  be  foreshadowed  in  the  Old  Law. 

A figure  thereof  was  the  fruit  of  the  tree  of  life 
planted  in  Paradise,  by  the  food  of  which  men,  in 
a state  of  innocence,  were  to  be  nourished,  and  to 
bloom  with  life,  that  they  might  preserve  them- 
selves from  death,  and  thus  secure  immortality. 

A figure  thereof  was  the  bread  and  wine  offered 
by  Melchisedech,  the  priest  and  king:  priest  of  the 
Most  High,  king  of  Salem,  king  of  peace. 

A figure  thereof  was  the  Paschal  Lamb,  the 
Lamb  without  blemish,  which  was  both  offered  and 
eaten:  which  was  to  be  consumed  neither  raw  nor 
cooked,  but  prepared  with  fire:  and  they  that  eat 
the  same  were  to  have  their  loins  girded,  shoes  on 
their  feet,  staves  in  their  hands,  as  if  in  readiness 
*0  go  on  a iournev. 


CHAPTER  I. 


523 


A figure  thereof  was  the  Manna  in  the  desert, 
which  fell  every  day  from  heaven,  possessed  the 
pleasantness  of  every  kind  of  savor,  was  called  the 
bread  of  Angels,  of  which  neither  he  that  gathered 
more  than  the  usual  measure  had  more,  nor  he  that 
collected  less  than  another  possessed  less. 

A figure  thereof  was  the  Ark  of  the  Covenant, 
wherein  the  Majesty  of  God  was  honored  between  the 
Cherubim ; and  whence  He  was  wont,  day  and  night, 
to  impart  to  His  people  propitiation,  aid,  and  comfort. 

Lastly,  a figure  thereof  was  the  bread  baked  un- 
der the  ashes,  whereby  the  Prophet  was  freed  from 
his  faintness  and  depression  of  spirit;  and,  endowed 
with  new  vigor,  walked,  on  the  strength  of  that 
food,  even  to  the  mountain  of  God. 

5.  It  was  not  unknown  to  Me,  my  Child,  how  much 
this  institution  would  cost  Me:  how  great  and  how 
many  a sacrifice  this  My  Sacramental  life  would 
require. 

I know  to  what  humiliations  I subject  Myself,  to 
how  many  insults  I expose  Myself.  But  all  these 
My  Heart  deems  less  than  the  love,  whereby  It  is 
borne  towards  My  Father  and  towards  men. 

My  love  is  overcome  by  no  obstacles:  it  triumphs 
easily  over  all.  Nay  more,  these  very  difficulties 
themselves,  it  looks  upon  and  displays,  as  so  many 
proofs  of  its  greatness  and  generosity. 

Behold,  then,  eminently  the  great  Sacrament  of 
affectionateness,  which,  conceived  by  My  love  be- 
fore all  ages,  was  realized  by  My  supreme  power 
in  time,  appeared  wonderful  to  the  Angels,  was 
preached  to  the  nations:  which  has  consoled  the 
world,  and  which  by  its  sweetness  has  inebriated 
the  hearts  of  mortals. 


524 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O the  hight  of  the 
wisdom  and  love  of  Thy  Heart,  Jesus,  Son  of  the 
living  God!  How  marvelous,  how  stupendous  are 
Its  works!  How  lovely,  O Lord,  how  sweet! 

Behold,  how  Thou  didst  love  us,  most  loving 
Jesus!  Thou  didst  annihilate  Thyself  for  love  of 
us,  taking  upon  Thee  the  form  of  food,  becoming 
like  unto  nourishment,  and  being  found  under  the  ap- 
pearance of  bread,  but  the  Bread  of  life  everlasting! 

O what  power  of  love  did  enkindle  Thy  Heart, 
when  about  to  pass  from  this  world  to  the  Father, 
Thou  didst  institute  this  most  wonderful,  this  most 
delightful  means  of  abiding  with  us,  and  of  abid- 
ing in  such  a manner! 

O prodigy  of  love!  O divine  institution!  wherein 
Thou  Thyself,  O most  benign  Jesus,  art  at  once  the 
banquet  and  the  guest,  the  offering  and  the  offerer, 
the  joy  of  Angels,  and  of  men! 

7.  Thanks  to  Thee,  Lord  Jesus,  eternal  thanks 
to  Thee,  for  the  unutterable  goodness  of  Thy  Heart, 
whereby  Thou  didst  bestow  upon  us  this  incom- 
parable blessing. 

Would  that  I were  able  to  return  Thee  suitable 
thanks  for  so  great  a gift!  Come,  ye  Angels  and 
Saints  of  God;  come  ye,  all  peoples  and  tribes; 
give  ye  thanks  with  me,  to  the  Lord:  let  us  praise, 
and  exceedingly  magnify  Him,  for  this  the  love 
of  His  Heart. 

Let  us  sing  a new  canticle  to  the  Lord;  for  that, 
abiding  with  us  after  a new  manner,  He  pours 
forth  upon  us  from  His  Heart,  blessings  ever  new. 

Let  us  joyfully  sing  to  God,  our  Saviour:  let  us 
fall  down  before  Him,  let  us  weep  for  joy  and  grati- 
tude in  His  presence. 


CHAPTER  II. 


525 


8.  O Jesus,  infinite  love!  who  through  love  didst 
come  into  this  world,  and  remainest  here  through 
love;  nay  more,  through  love  art  become  wholly 
mine:  to  Thee,  in  return,  I give  and  deliver  my 
heart,  all  my  affections,  my  whole  self:  grant,  I 
beseech  Thee,  that,  by  love,  I may  be  Thine  for 
evermore,  that  whatsoever  I am  and  possess,  may 
be  at  the  disposal  of  Thy  love  and  glory. 

Take  away  from  me  all  obstacles  to  Thy  love; 
extinguish  in  me  every  ill-ordered  affection,  that 
naught  may  affect,  naught  may  move  me,  except 
what  concerns  Thyself,  or  Thy  interests. 

Thou,  O delight  of  my  heart,  Thou,  O bliss  of 
my  soul!  do  Thou  live  and  reign  in  me:  be  Thou 
henceforth  the  first  and  last  object  of  my  thoughts 
and  affections:  let  me  be  ever  occupied  with  Thee, 
or  for  Thee,  who  art  all  to  me. 


CHAPTER  II. 

OF  THE  MARVELOUS  INSTITUTION  OF  THE  MOST 
BLESSED  SACRAMENT  OF  THE  EUCHARIST. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — I am  the  living  Bread, 
that  came  down  from  heaven.  He  that  comes  to 
Me  shall  not  hunger,  for  the  Bread  which  I shall 
give  him  is  My  Flesh  for  the  life  of  the  world. 

When  I had  said  these  things,  My  Child,  the 
Jews  disputed  among  themselves,  saying:  How  can 
this  man  give  us  His  Flesh  to  eat? 

And,  in  reply  to  them,  I declared  positively: 
Verily,  verily,  I say  to  you,  unless  ye  eat  the 


526 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Flesh  of  the  Son  of  man,  and  drink  His  Blood,  ye 
shall  not  have  life  in  you. 

For  My  Flesh  is  meat  indeed,  and  My  Blood  is 
drink  indeed. 

2.  Before  the  festival  day  of  the  Passover,  know- 
ing that  My  hour  had  come,  that  I should  pass  out 
of  this  world  to  the  Father,  having  loved  My  own 
who  were  in  the  world,  I loved  them  unto  the  end. 

It  being  now  evening,  I sat  down  to  the  last 
Supper,  and  the  twelve  Disciples  with  Me : to 
them,  as  they  were  seated  around,  I said:  With 
desire,  I have  desired  to  eat  this  Passover  with 
you. 

And  whilst  they  were  at  Supper,  I took  bread, 
and  blessed,  and  broke,  and  gave  it  to  My  Disciples, 
saying:  Take  ye  and  eat;  this  is  My  Body. 

And  taking  the  chalice,  I gave  thanks,  and 
gave  to  them,  saying:  Drink  ye  all  of  this;  this  is 
My  Blood. 

Do  this  for  a commemoration  of  Me. 

3.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple. — These,  then,  are 
Thy  words,  Lord  God,  truth  eternal,  whereby  Thou 
didst  solemnly  promise  beforehand,  that  Thou 
wouldst  give  Thyself  to  us  as  the  Bread  of  Life: 
these  are  the  deeds  whereby  thou  didst  afterwards 
truly  fulfil  what  Thou  hadst  promised. 

Thy  Church,  taught  by  these  words  and  deeds, 
even  before  they  had  been  recorded,  enjoyed  this,. 
Thy  divine  gift;  and  was  doing  this,  as  Thou  hadst 
enjoined,  for  a commemoration  of  Thee. 

By  these  words,  Thou  didst  overthrow  and 
thwart  the  foreseen  difficulties  of  infidels,  and  the 
objections  of  heretics,  and  the  temptations  of 
demons. 


CHAPTER  II. 


527 


For,  by  them,  Thou  taughtest,  that  whatsoever 
Thou,  the  infallible  truth,  utterest,  must  be  be- 
lieved, even  if  we  do  not  understand  how  these 
things  can  be. 

And  through  the  holy  Church,  Thy  true  Spouse, 
we  know  the  things  Thou  didst  utter;  but  in  what 
manner  the  mysteries  which  Thou  didst  proclaim 
by  words,  are  inwardly  constituted,  or  realized, 
that  we  do  not  comprehend,  since  our  limited 
reason  cannot  reach  those  things  which  transcend 
all  the  bounds  of  reason. 

If  we  do  not  understand  the  things  which  are 
below  ourselves,  how  shall  we  understand  those 
which  are  above  us? 

That  a seed  sown  in  the  ground,  after  it  has  de- 
cayed, grows  up  into  a new  stalk,  and  produces 
much  fruit,  we  believe,  because  we  perceive  it  out- 
wardly; but  how  these  things  happen  intrinsically, 
although  they  belong  to  the  natural  order,  we  are 
unable  to  penetrate. 

Should  he  not  deservedly  be  regarded  as  un- 
sound in  mind,  who,  whilst,  by  means  of  the  senses, 
he  perceives  that  there  are  mysteries  of  nature, 
would  not  be  willing  to  admit  them,  because  he 
does  not  comprehend  how  they  do  exist? 

Now,  even  by  means  of  the  senses,  we  perceive 
that  there  are  mysteries  of  religion  revealed  by 
Thee;  because  faith  comes  by  hearing:  and, 
moreover,  by  reason  itself,  we  see  that  those  mys- 
teries are  true;  because  it  is  evident  to  reason, 
that  it  is  impossible  that  Thou,  the  essential  truth, 
shouldst  utter  what  is  false. 

The  submission,  therefore,  of  all  them  that  faith- 
fully believe  in  Thee,  is  reasonable.  But  they  that 


528  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 

refuse  to  believe  Thee,  thinking  themselves  wise, 
have  become  fools,  and  altogether  unreasonable. 

And  it  proceeds  from  a secret  pride,  instigated 
by  the  cunning  of  the  devil,  that  they  are  unwill- 
ing to  subject  to  Thee,  its  Author,  the  noblest 
gift,  their  reason;  and  to  honor  Thee,  by  the  sub- 
mission of  the  same. 

But  all  they  that  at  any  time  have  been  humble 
children  of  the  Church, — how  greatly  soever  they 
were  distinguished  for  their  genius, — have  brought 
their  intellect  under  subjection,  to  obey  Thee  by 
faith. 

By  this  Thou  showest  that  Thou  art  the  Lord 
of  all,  good  towards  all,  no  respecter  of  persons:  and 
that  from  all,  from  the  learned,  as  well  as  from 
the  unlearned,  Thou  desirest  the  obedience  of  a 
subdued  intellect  and  a submissive  will. 

4.  Lord  God,  my  Creator  and  Redeemer,  I pros- 
trate myself  before  Thee,  and  submit  my  reason 
wholly  to  Thee:  ay,  my  whole  intellect  and  will, 
my  body,  and  all  my  senses,  in  obedience  to  faith, 
for  Thy  glory. 

But  it  is  also  my  glory  and  advantage  that  I 
may  return  to  Thee,  their  beginning  and  end,  all 
the  gifts  of  soul  and  body  which  I have  received 
from  Thee;  and  that,  by  means  of  whatsoever  I 
have  received,  in  the  order  of  nature,  I may  freely 
co-operate  with  Thy  grace  for  the  supernatural 
order,  and,  consequently,  for  my  own  everlasting 
honor,  my  never-ending  bliss. 

Reason  and  faith  are  both  Thy  gifts,  Lord;  the 
former  a natural,  the  latter  a supernatural  gift : 
both  ever  assist  each  other,  are  never  contrary: 
both  given  for  truth,  each  one  in  its  owrn  order. 


CHAPTER  II. 


529 


If  I believe,  because  my  natural  reason  moves  me 
thereto,  my  faith  is  a natural  one, — neither  super- 
natural nor  saving.  If  I believe,  because  a super- 
natural motive  impels  me,  my  faith  is  supernatural 
and  salutary. 

Blessed  are  they  who  have  not  seen  and  have  be- 
lieved. And,  certainly,  how  can  the  senses  perceive 
what  does  not  fall  under  the  senses?  or,  how  can 
reason  comprehend  what  does  not  lie  within  the 
grasp  of  reason?  Or,  how  can  the  cold  utterance 
of  man  explain  that  which  the  exceeding  love  of 
Thy  Heart  has  effected? 

5.  In  the  spirit,  therefore,  of  Thy  Church,  I do 
firmly  believe  that  Thou,  O Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
true  God  and  man,  art  truly  and  substantially  con- 
tained in  the  most  Blessed  Sacrament,  under  the 
appearance  of  things  visible,  bread  and  wine. 

I do  firmly  believe  that  Thou  art  wholly  and 
entirely  present  under  each  species,  and  under 
every  part  of  each  species,  if  they  be  sepa- 
rated. 

I do  firmly  believe  that  Thou,  there  present  in 
Thy  glorified  state,  art  the  same,  whom,  at  Thy 
entrance  into  the  world,  the  Angels  adored,  whom 
Mary  and  Joseph,  the  Shepherds  and  the  Magi, 
worshipped  under  the  form  of  a Child,  who,  meek 
and  humble  of  Heart,  didst  go  about  doing  good; 
who,  having  died  for  us,  didst  rise  again;  who, 
having  gone  up  to  heaven,  art  seated  in  glory  at 
the  right  of  God  the  Father. 

I do  not,  as  the  Jews,  ask  for  signs,  nor  search 
into  the  manner;  I do  not  desire,  like  the  unbe- 
lievers, to  understand  reasons  intrinsically  concealed 
I do  not  require,  like  heretics,  that  my  individual 


530 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


judgment  be  gratified:  for  me  the  testimony  of  Thy 
infallible  Spouse,  the  holy  Church,  which  is  the 
ground  of  the  truth,  is  sufficient. 

I reject  whatsoever  is  opposed  to  her  doctrine: 
this  is  my  security,  my  faith. 

6.  O Lord  God  of  infinite  Majesty,  Thou  the 
Saint  of  the  Saints!  who  art  so  marvelously  and  so 
lovingly  hidden  in  this  mystery.  Thee  I adore,  Thee 
I worship  devotedly. 

Humbly  prostrate,  with  body  and  soul,  in  Thy 
presence,  I profess  before  heaven  and  earth  that 
Thou  art  my  God  and  my  Saviour;  to  Thee  do  I 
pay  the  supreme  worship,  due  to  Thy  Majesty. 

I offer  to  Thee  also  the  adorations,  honors,  and 
homage  which  the  Angels,  and  the  Saints,  and  Thy 
whole  Church  pay  to  Thee. 

0 that  all  men  would  acknowledge  Thee,  would 
adore  Thee,  would  show  Thee  homage  and  rev- 
erence! 

But,  since  so  many  fail  in  their  duty,  I,  O Lord, 
uniting  myself  with  Thy  Saints  and  Angels,  and 
all  faithful  souls,  do  adore  and  venerate  Thee,  in 
their  stead:  and  I desire,  in  this  manner,  to  make 
amends  for  the  negligence  of  all  unfaithful  souls 

7.  O Jesus!  whatsoever  I may  be  able  to  do  for 
Thee,  is  as  nothing  in  comparison  of  what  I owe 
to  Thee. 

In  this  most  delightful  Sacrament,  by  the  pure 
love  of  Thy  Heart,  Thou  hast  given  me  whatever 
Thou  possessest,  Thy  Body  and  Soul,  Thy  Human- 
ity and  Divinity,  with  all  their  treasures.  I owe, 
therefore,  to  Thee,  as  much  as  Thou  art  worth, 
Thou  who  art  infinite. 

1 give  to  Thee,  in  return,  my  body  and  soul, 


CHAPTER  III.  ' 


S3i 


whatsoever  I have,  whatsoever  I am:  but  behold! 
after  I have  given  all  this,  my  debt  remains  in- 
finite. 

It  is  good  for  me,  Lord  Jesus,  that  I am  thus 
indebted  to  Thee,  that  I may  be  moved  and  im- 
pelled to  love  without  bounds  the  infinite  goodness 
of  Thy  Heart. 

Mindful  of  Thy  pure  and  boundless  love,  O Jesus, 
I love  Thee,  in  return,  with  my  whole  heart,  and  I 
long  to  be  able  to  satisfy  Thee  by  an  unlimited 
love. 

8.  Help  me,  O most  loving  Jesus,  that  I may 
love  Thee  with  that  affection,  that  tenderness,  that 
reverence,  which  love  alone  can  inspire. 

Grant  that,  henceforth,  I may  live  by  pure  love 
for  Thee,  who  by  infinite  love  livest  for  me  in  the 
most  holy  Tabernacle. 

By  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  thus  made  a captive, 
thus  detained  by  love,  I beg  and  implore  Thee,  so 
bind  my  heart  to  Thine,  that  it  may  be  a captive 
of  Thy  love,  and  be  never  dissevered  nor  separated 
therefrom. 


CHAPTER  III. 

WITH  HOW  LIVELY  A FAITH  THE  CHURCH  HAS 
ALWAYS  AND  EVERYWHERE  MANIFESTED  HER 
DEVOTION  TO  THE  MOST  BLESSED  SACRAMENT. 

i.  The  voice  0}  Jesus. — My  Child,  the  Church 
exults  at  this  most  excellent  favor  of  My  Heart, 
and  venerates  this  supreme  miracle  of  My  love  with 
every  demonstration  of  devotedness. 


S32 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Enraptured  at  the  excess  of  the  goodness  of  My 
Heart,  she  melts  with  love  for  Me,  she  rejoices  se- 
curely in  the  possession  of  My  most  delightful 
presence,  and  continues  to  rejoice,  whilst  genera- 
tions pass  by,  whilst  the  face  of  the  earth  is  changed, 
and  ages  speed  away. 

Behold!  in  every  age  of  the  past,  from  the  East 
and  the  West,  from  the  North  and  the  South,  the 
children  of  the  Church  have  arisen  and  have  called 
their  Mother  blessed,  on  account  of  so  great  a love 
of  My  Heart,  which  abides  with  her  all  days  even 
to  the  consummation  of  the  world. 

In  this  presence,  uninterrupted,  and  full  of  mu- 
tual love,  I celebrate  the  great  Supper,  the  divine 
festival  of  My  spiritual  nuptials,  with  My  immacu- 
late Spouse,  the  holy  Church. 

To  these  the  faithful  are  invited  and  called,  be 
they  poor,  and  weak,  and  blind,  and  lame,  that  the 
house  may  be  filled  with  guests,  and  that  their  joy 
may  be  full. 

2.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — Hear  ye  this,  O 
mortals,  and  come  ye  clothed  with  the  nuptial  gar- 
ment. Here  taste  ye,  and  see  how  sweet  is  the 
Lord. 

To  this  sacred  banquet,  at  which  the  Angels 
minister,  all  the  truly  faithful  do,  always  and  every- 
where, come  adorned  with  this  festive  garment, 
that,  being  pleasing  to  the  Lord,  they  may,  whilst 
they  are  nourished  and  refreshed,  rejoice  with 
Him. 

But  they  that  are  without  this  garment,  being 
defiled,  do  rightly  “abstain,”  because  they  deserv- 
edly fear,  “lest  they  eat  and  drink  judgment  to 
themselves;”  or  “because  they  do  not  confess  that 


CHAPTER  III. 


533 


the  Eucharist  is  the  Body  of  our  Saviour,  Jesus 
Christ,  which  suffered  fo*  our  sins,  and  which  the 
Father  raised  to  life.1’  (I  Cor.  n,  St.  Ignat.  Mart., 
Cent.  I.) 

But  we  “have  been  taught  that  the  Eucharist  is 
the  Body  and  Blood  of  Jesus  Christ,  who  became 
incarnate.”  (St.  Justin,  Mart.,  Cent.  II.) 

How  great  a gift  is,  therefore,  bestowed  not  only 
upon  our  soul,  “but  also  upon  our  body,  which  is 
nourished  with  the  Body  and  Blood  of  the  Lord!” 
(St.  Iren.,  Cent.  II.) 

Hence,  how  great  a reverence  is  required!  “Ye 
know,  ye  who  are  accustomed  to  assist  at  the  divine 
mysteries,  how,  when  ye  receive  the  Body  of  the 
Lord,  ye  watch  with  all  care  and  reverence,  that 
nothing,  be  it  ever  so  little,  fall  down,  that  naught 
of  the  consecrated  gift  slip  off:  for  ye  believe  your- 
selves guilty,  if,  through  carelessness,  anything  do 
fall  So  great  is  the  precaution  ye  use,  and  de- 
servedly so.”  (Origen,  Cent.  III.) 

No  sooner  had  the  Church  emerged  from  the 
persecution  of  three  hundred  years,  than,  rejoicing 
and  crowned  with  laurels,  she,  in  her  first  general 
Council, — her  sons  having  been  assembled  from 
every  part  of  the  world, — regulated  the  manner  in 
which  the  divine  Sacrament  should  be  dispensed 
throughout  the  world,  in  order  that  so  sacred  a 
mystery  might  everywhere  be  handled  with  holy 
awe. 

She  does  not  bring  forward  new  things,  but,  faith- 
ful guardian  of  her  deposit,  she  recalls  and  incul- 
cates the  ancient  practices.  “Neither  the  Rule,” 
says  this  watchful  Mother,  “nor  custom  has  handed 
it  down,  that  they,  who  have  not  the  power  of  offer 


534 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


ing  the  Sacrifice,  should  present  the  Body  of  Christ 
to  them  that  offer  the  same.  Let  them  receive  ac- 
cording to  their  rank  the  Holy  Communion  from  the 
Bishop  or  the  priest,  after  the  clergy.”  (ist  Nic. 
Counc.,  Cent.  IV.) 

Behold  the  most  Holy  Communion!  behold  the 
Sacrament  of  the  Lord!  “For  under  the  appear- 
ance of  bread,  He  gives  us  His  Body,  under  the  ap- 
pearance of  wine  He  gives  us  His  Blood,  that,  when 
you  have  received  the  same,  you  taste  the  Body  and 
Blood  of  Christ,  having  become  partakers  of  His 
Body  and  Blood:  for  thus  we  become  Christijeri , 
that  is,  bearing  Christ  in  our  bodies:  thus,  according 
to  the  blessed  Peter,  we  are  made  partakers  of  the 
divine  nature.”  (S.  Cyril  of  Jerus.,  Cent.  IV.) 

“ Bread,  indeed,  it  is  before  the  sacramental 
words:  but  when  the  Consecration  has  been  pro- 
nounced thereon,  of  bread  it  becomes  the  Body  of 
Christ.  By  which  words  then,  and  by  whose  lan- 
guage is  the  Consecration  made?  By  the  words 
of  Christ  the  Lord.  Therefore,  the  Word  of  Christ 
affects  this  Sacrament.  Which  Word  of  Christ? 
The  one,  whereby  all  things  were  made.  The  Lord 
commanded,  and  the  heavens  were  made:  the  Lord 
commanded,  and  the  earth  was  made:  the  Lord 
commanded,  and  every  creature  was  produced.  You 
see,  then,  how  effective  is  the  Word  of  Christ.  If, 
then,  there  is  so  great  a power  in  the  word  of  the 
Lord  Jesus,  that  things,  which  were  not,  began  to 
exist,  how  much  the  more  effective  is  it  to  change 
into  another  that  which  did  already  exist  ? He 
spoke,  and  it  was  done.”  (S.  Ambros.,  Cent.  IV.) 

“ O Sacrament  of  godliness!  O sign  of  unity! 
O bond  of  charity!  He  that  desires  to  five  has 


CHAPTER  III. 


535 


where  he  may  live,  whereby  he  may  live.  Let  him 
become  incorporate  that  he  may  receive  life.  Let 
him  not  be  a decayed  member,  which  deserves  to 
be  cut  off;  let  him  not  be  a misshapen  one,  of  which 
he  is  ashamed.  Let  him  be  fair,  fit,  sound:  let 
him  cleave  to  the  body:  let  him  live  of  God  for 
God.”  (S.  August.,  Cent.  V.) 

“As  many  of  us,  therefore,  as  become  partakers 
of  this  Body,  let  us  reflect  that  we  taste  Him,  who 
is  seated  above,  who  is  adored  by  the  Angels.  That 
which  the  Angels  dare  not  freely  gaze  upon,  by 
reason  of  the  dazzling  splendor,  by  that  we  are  here 
nourished,  to  that  we  are  united,  with  that  we  be- 
came one  body.  In  order,  therefore,  that  we  may 
not  only  become  this  by  charity,  let  us  also  in  very 
deed  be  blended  with  that  body:  for  this  is  effected 
by  the  food  which  He  has  granted  to  us.  Let  us,  then, 
go  away  from  that  table,  like  lions  breathing  fire, 
having  become  an  object  of  dread  to  the  devil.” 
(S.  Chrysost.,  Cent.  V.) 

“How  goodly  is  that  Bread  which  nourishes  the 
Angels  by  its  outward  appearance,  that  they  may 
be  sated  therewith  in  the  land  of  bliss;  and  us  by 
faith,  that  we  may  not  faint  on  the  way.  That 
man  might  eat  the  Bread  of  Angels,  the  Creator  of 
Angels  became  man,  nourishing  both,  and  remain- 
ing whole  and  entire.”  (St.  Fulgent.,  Cent.  VI.) 

4.  “They,  however,  that  live  wickedly,  and  do 
not  cease  to  communicate,  thinking,  that,  by  such 
a Communion,  they  are  cleansed,  let  them  learn 
that  they  make  no  progress  toward  a cleansing,  but 
toward  condemnation.  For  the  body  of  Christ  is 
the  food  of  Saints.”  (St.  Isid.  of  Seville,  Cent. 
VII.) 


536 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Prepare  ye,  therefore,  your  heart.  “For  the 
Eucharist  is  a Communion,  whereby  we  have  fel- 
lowship with  Christ,  and  receive  His  Humanity 
and  Divinity,  and  unite  ourselves  between  us.” 
(St.  John  Damasc.,  Cent.  VIII.) 

“Let  them  hear,  then,  who  wish  to  weaken  this 
word  of  the  Body,  as  if  it  were  not  the  true  Body 
of  Christ  which  is  now  celebrated  in  the  Sacrament 
by  the  Church,  nor  His  real  Blood.  They  seem 
desirous  to  approve  or  invent  something  new,  as  if 
it  were  merely  a certain  virtue  of  Christ’s  Body  or 
Blood,  so  that  the  Lord  is  made  to  speak  falsely, 
when  Truth  itself  says:  This  is  My  Body.  He  did 
not  then  say,  when  He  broke  and  gave  the  bread, 
This  is,  or  in  this  mystery  is,  a certain  virtue  or 
figure  of  My  Body,  but  He  said  plainly:  This  is  My 
Body:  and,  therefore,  it  is  what  He  said,  not  that 
which  any  one  may  imagine.  No  one  has  as  yet 
openly  gainsaid  that,  which  the  whole  world  believes 
and  confesses.”  (St.  Paschas.,  Ab.,  Cent.  IX.) 

5.  “In  churches,  the  Eucharist  is  always  acces- 
sible: which  custom  the  ancient  churches  have 
preserved.”  (Luitprand.,  Cent.  X.) 

Wherefore,  “ Christ  cannot  be  accused  of  forget- 
fulness: Christ  does  not  enjoin  things  contrary  to 
His  commands.  He  is  the  Bread  that  came  down 
from  heaven,  which  is  daily  brought  to  the  table 
of  the  Church,  as  a heavenly  food,  which  is  broken 
for  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  which  feeds  and  nouu 
ishes  unto  life  everlasting  them  that  eat  the  same.” 
(St.  Peter  Damian.,  Cent.  XI.) 

“Neither  need  we  pretend  that  to  this  our  age 
is  denied,  either  that  apparition,  which  was  vouch- 
safed to  the  Fathers  of  the  ancient  Covenant;  c* 


CHAPTER  III. 


537 


that  presence  of  His  Body,  which  was  exhibited  h 
the  Apostles.  Since,  to  them  that  consider  faith> 
fully,  neither  the  one  nor  the  other  can  be  wanting. 
Surely,  it  cannot  in  the  least  be  doubted  that,  in 
the  Sacrament,  we  have  even  now  present  with  us 
the  true  substance  of  His  Body.  We  have  revela- 
tions, but  in  spirit  and  in  power,  so  that  it  is  proved 
that  naught  is  wanting  in  any  kind  of  grace.”  (St. 
Bern.,  Cent.  XII.) 

6.  “ The  delightfulness  of  this  Sacrament  none 
can  adequately  express,  whereby  spiritual  sweetness 
is  tasted  in  its  very  source:  and  the  remembrance 
of  that  most  excellent  charity  which  He  manifested 
in  His  Passion  is  recalled  to  mind.  Wherefore, 
that  the  immensity  of  this  love  might  be  the  more 
intimately  imprinted  in  the  hearts  of  the  faithful, 
at  the  last  Supper,  when,  after  He  had  celebrated 
the  Passover  with  His  Disciples,  He  was  about  to 
pass  from  this  world  to  the  Father,  He  instituted 
this  Sacrament,  as  an  everlasting  memorial  of  His 
Passion,  the  fulfillment  of  the  ancient  figures,  the 
greatest  of  the  miracles  wrought  by  Him,  and  the 
exceeding  comfort  of  those  that  were  saddened  by 
His  absence.”  (St.  Thom.  Aq.,  Cent.  XIII.) 

“ A spiritual  and  interior  person  finds  in  the 
partaking  of  the  Body  of  Christ  Jesus  twelve  ex- 
cellent truits:  Fortitude,  to  forsake  easily  things 
earthly  and  perishable:  Progress,  in  the  things 
relating  to  salvation:  Elevation  of  the  soul  above 
whatever  is  outside  of  God:  Strength  to  practice 
good:  Enlightenment  of  the  understanding  more 
perfectly  to  know  God,  and  all  things  which  are 
seen  in  the  mirror  of  eternity:  Fervor  of  love  for 
God:  Fulfillment  of  those  things  which  beget  hap- 


538 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


pi  ness:  a Treasure  of  wealth:  a constant  Cheer- 
fulness of  spirit:  a certain  secure  Firmness;  per- 
fect Peace:  Union  of  the  soul  with  God.”  (Thauler, 
Cent.  XIV.) 

“ O precious,  magnificent,  saving  banquet,  replete 
with  every  delight!  By  this,  sins  are  cleansed 
away,  virtues  increased,  the  mind  is  enriched  with 
the  abundance  of  all  graces.”  (St.  Antonin.,  Cent. 
XV.) 

7.  Wherefore,  delivering  her  doctrine  concern- 
ing this  august  and  divine  Sacrament — which  the 
Catholic  Church,  instructed  by  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord  Himself,  and  by  His  Apostles,  and  taught  by 
the  Holy  Spirit,  who  always  inspires  her  with  every 
truth, — has  ever  retained  and  will  preserve  to  the 
end  of  the  world, — she  teaches,  and  openly  and 
simply  professes  that,  in  the  bountiful  Sacrament  of 
the  Eucharist,  after  the  Consecration  of  the  bread 
and  wine,  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  true  God  and 
man,  is  truly,  really,  and  substantially  contained 
under  the  appearance  of  those  visible  elements. 

She  warns,  exhorts,  prays,  and  entreats,  through 
the  tender  mercy  of  our  God,  that  all  and  each  one 
of  those  that  bear  the  name  of  Christian,  do  meet 
and  agree,  in  this  sign  of  unity,  this  bond  of  char- 
ity, this  symbol  of  concord, — mindful  of  so  great  a 
Majesty,  and  so  eminent  a love  of  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord,  who,  as  the  price  of  our  salvation,  laid  down 
His  beloved  life,  and  gave  us  His  Flesh  to  eat: — 
that  they  do  believe  and  revere  these  sacred  mys- 
teries of  His  Body  and  Blood,  with  constancy  and 
firmness  of  faith,  with  devotedness,  and  piety  and 
worship  of  spirit,  so  that  they  may  be  enabled  fre- 
quently to  receive  this  supersubstantial  bread.,  and 


CHAPTER  III. 


539 


that  this  may  truly  be  to  them  everlasting  life  and 
health  of  the  soul. 

That,  being  invigorated  by  the  strength  thereof, 
they  may  be  enabled,  from  the  journey  of  this 
weary  pilgrimage,  to  come  to  the  heavenly  country, 
there  to  eat  unvailed  the  same  Bread  of  Angels,  that 
now  they  eat  hidden  beneath  the  sacramental  vails. 
(Council  of  Trent,  Sess.  13,  Cent.  XVI.) 

8.  O Lord  God!  how  did  the  faithful,  through 
all  ages,  burn  to  honor  Thee  in  this  Sacrament  of 
Thy  love!  with  what  piety  did  they  strive  here  to 
exhibit  for  Thee  the  utmost  reverence!  How  they 
did  exert  themselves  to  show  due  gratefulness  to 
Thy  Heart,  and  to  compensate  by  love  for  the  love 
of  Thy  Heart! 

And,  therefore,  too,  should  we  be  blamed,  we, 
the  heirs  of  the  faith  once  delivered  to  the  Saints, 
we,  the  children  of  the  Saints,  were  we  to  grow 
lukewarm  in  this  devotion  of  devotions,  in  this 
chief  point  of  our  Religion;  whilst  so  long  a suc- 
cession of  ages  calls  forth  our  lively  faith,  when  so 
great  a multitude  of  the  faithful  of  all  times  and 
places  throughout  the  world  stimulate  us  by  their 
example;  and  since  so  great  a goodness  of  Thy 
Heart  excites  our  hearts. 

Enliven  our  faith,  most  loving  Jesus,  and,  when 
enlivened,  increase  it  unceasingly.  Strengthen  our 
hope  and  confidence.  Enkindle  and  inflame  our 
love. 

Grant,  O Lord,  that  we  may  ever  be  enabled  to 
worship  in  the  spirit  of  faith,  to  venerate  devotedly 
this  most  sacred  and  most  sweet  Mystery,  and  to 
partake  worthily  thereof. 


540 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

THAT  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE 

SACRAMENT  OF  HIS  LOVE,  IS  PERFECTLY  BLISS' 

FUL. 

1.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — That  for  which  My  Heart 
longed,  that  which  It  sought  through  every  excess 
of  love,  this  It  now  enjoys  contented  in  the  holy 
Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist. 

Behold!  now  not  only  the  justice  of  My  heav- 
enly Father,  but  also  the  love  of  My  Heart  is 
satisfied.  Herein  rejoices  and  exults  My  Heart, 
that  nothing  is  now  wanting  to  Its  wished-for  bliss. 

Rejoice  with  Me,  My  Child;  because  here  is  the 
joy,  the  delight,  the  blessedness  of  My  Heart. 

Here  is  the  new  heaven,  wrought  and  adorned 
by  skill  divine,  where  My  Heart  is  well  pleased 
and  blissful  all  days. 

Yet  behold!  Child,  My  Heart  does  not  here  en- 
joy those  things  wherein  the  world  by  its  vain 
struggles  seeks  for  happiness.  It  possesses  not  the 
display  of  earthly  wealth,  nor  the  pleasures  of  the 
senses,  nor  those  objects  which  flatter  the  passions. 

All  these  I willingly  do  without:  nay,  frequently 
even  I am  wont  to  be  surrounded  with  what  the 
world  shuns  and  abhors.  Yet  My  Heart  is  com- 
pletely contented  and  blissful. 

2.  Why  should  not  My  Heart  be  happy  here, 
since  in  this  Paradise  of  supernatural  delights  It 
overflows  with  a torrent  of  divine  joys  and  supreme 
sweetness  ? 

I am  perfectly  happy  in  Heart  by  possessing 


CHAPTER  IV. 


541 


those  things  which  as  the  Son  I have  by  inherit- 
ance from  the  Father,  and  which,  as  the  Saviour  of 
the  world,  I have  acquired  at  the  price  of  My  life. 

But  thou,  My  Child,  wherein  dost  thou  seek  thy 
felicity?  is  it  also  in  the  divine  union,  in  supernal 
communing,  in  the  sweet  consolation  of  the  divine 
good  pleasure? 

Dost  thou  not  sometimes  lose  the  joy  or  even  the 
peace  of  thy  heart,  because  thou  hast  not  that  which 
gratifies  nature?  Art  thou  also,  according  to  the 
divine  Will,  gladly  deprived  thereof? 

Look  thou  attentively,  Child,  and  be  persuaded 
that  thy  heart,  like  Mine,  cannot  be  made  happy 
by  the  love  and  enjoyment  of  things  sensible,  of 
objects  created,  but  of  those  which  are  supernatural 
and  divine. 

3.  Here,  moreover,  is  My  Heart  blissful,  by 
reason  of  the  happiness  which  the  faithful  draw 
from  this  fountain  of  blessings,  whereof  they  par- 
take with  Me. 

As  a good  father  experiences  happiness  when  he 
finds  himself  among  his  beloved  children;  so  do  I in 
the  midst  of  My  people. 

Here  the  faithful,  as  children  most  dear  to  My 
Heart,  are  trained  and  formed  by  Me;  they  ban- 
quet, they  entertain  themselves  with  Me:  they  drink 
in  the  generosity  and  fortitude  of  My  Heart:  they 
are  incited  to  emulate  My  virtues:  yea,  they  learn 
to  glorify  and  delight  in  the  same  things  with  Me. 

For  this  is  My  Heart  glad  indeed,  as  It  deems 
Itself  happy  whensoever  It  has  made  others  happy. 

Rejoice  with  Me,  My  Child,  seeing  that  thy  hap- 
piness is  not  only  an  object  of  care,  but  also  of  joy 
to  My  Heart. 


542 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


4.  O if  thou  knewest,  how  great  a bliss  My 
Heart  does,  over  and  above,  enjoy  here,  on  account 
of  the  tenderness,  the  devotedness  of  the  love  of  so 
many  souls,  that,  in  every  state  and  condition  of 
life,  are  wholly  consecrated  to  Me,  and  live,  with 
every  affection  of  their  heart,  for  Me  alone  I 

Here,  My  Child,  here  is  Benjamin  with  Me  in 
ecstasy  of  mind.  Here  are  pure  souls  enraptured 
with  heavenly  delights,  wherewith  the  Angels  them- 
selves are  inebriated. 

Here  those  generous  souls,  although  weak  by 
nature,  form  great  and  noble  designs  for  Me,  and, 
by  affection  and  deed,  make  compensation  for  the 
sacrifices  of  My  love,  consecrate  themselves  wholly 
to  My  interests. 

And  should  not  I be  delighted  with  a love  so  great, 
so  tender,  so  chaste?  Should  I not  pour  fcrtn  My 
whole  Heart  upon  them?  shall  I suffer  Myself  to 
be  overcome  by  tenderness  and  generosity  of  love? 

My  delight  is  to  be  with  the  children  of  men: 
the  hight  of  My  delight  to  enjoy  the  love  of  pure 
souls,  and,  in  return,  to  make  them  taste  the  sweets 
of  My  love. 

5.  Here,  therefore,  is  My  Heart  in  various  ways, 
and  perfectly  replenished  with  bliss;  yet  if  there 
be  any  who  are  ungrateful  or  degenerate,  and  who 
are  insensible  to  My  love,  or  act  unjustly  towards 
My  Heart,  they  only  can  make  themselves  wretched, 
but  cannot  render  Me  unhappy. 

For,  since  I am  risen  to  a life  of  glory,  I die  no 
more;  neither  am  I affected  by  sorrow.  My  joy, 
My  beatitude,  is  perfect  and  complete:  none  shall 
take  it  away  from  My  Heart,  none  shall  lessen  the 
same. 


CHAPTER  IV, 


543 


As  My  Heart  is  personally  united  to  the  Divinity, 
It  is  blissful  with  the  beatitude  of  the  very  Di- 
vinity. 

And  therefore,  in  order  that  My  Heart  may  be 
perfectly  blissful,  It  needs  no  external  means;  for, 
whether  these  be  present  or  absent,  It  will  ever  be 
most  blessed. 

No  less  blissful  in  the  hut  with  the  dying  poor, 
than  in  the  palace  of  the  nobleman  or  king;  as 
blissful  in  the  Tabernacle  of  the  altar,  as  upon  the 
throne  in  heaven. 

For  the  reason  of  My  beatitude  is  within;  whence 
it  is  ever  the  very  same  in  every  place,  at  all  times, 
under  all  circumstances. 

This  is  the  inner  recess,  where  I have  placed  My 
abode,  where  I dwell  in  light  inaccessible,  where  I 
enjoy  a full  and  unchangeable  beatitude. 

6.  The  Angels  that  throng  around  Me  are  filled 
with  wonder,  and  prostrate  they  worship,  and  exult- 
ing they  exclaim:  Let  us  be  glad,  and  give  glory  to 
our  God! 

And  much  more  are  they  rejoiced  at  My  bliss 
than  at  their  own;  for,  rapt  in  Me,  and  forgetful 
of  themselves,  in  their  exceeding  love  for  Me,  they 
exult  with  Me  amid  joys  unutterable. 

In  like  manner,  do  many  faithful  souls, — although 
still  in  the  body  they  experience  the  miseries  of  this 
mortal  life, — rejoice  exceedingly,  because  I am 
what  I am:  and  they  derive  the  highest  happiness 
from  this,  that  they  know  that  I am  supremely 
blessed. 

And  thou  also,  My  Child,  if  thou  lovest  Me 
truly,  wilt  surely  rejoice  for  that  I am  blissful,  not 
only  in  the  enjoyment  of  the  highest  glory  at  the 


544 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


right  of  God  the  Father,  but  also  in  this  Sacrament 
of  the  love  of  My  Heart. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Thou  art  My  wit- 
ness, most  sweet  Jesus,  and  knowest  that,  through 
love  for  Thee,  I rejoice  at  Thy  perfect  beatitude 
in  the  most  delightful  Sacrament  of  Thy  Heart. 

Yea,  Lord,  my  heart  and  my  whole  soul  rejoice 
in  Thee,  because  Thy  Heart  is  blessed,  and  is  con- 
firmed in  blissfulness  forever  and  ever. 

O how  truly  must  the  highest  joy  overwhelm  me, 
because,  Thy  Passion  being  now  over,  Thy  glory 
and  bliss  are  full,  and  placed  beyond  every  change! 

It  is  true  that,  since  I still  have  to  endure  the 
hardships  of  my  banishment,  the  time  has  not  yet 
come  to  rejoice  at  my  own  glory  and  bliss  everlast- 
ing: but,  meanwhile,  it  is  enough  for  me  that  Thou 
my  God,  my  Saviour  and  Father,  rejoicest  to  the 
utmost  fullness,  in  glory  and  beatitude  supreme. 

This  is  for  me  a reason  to  rejoice,  and  to  rejoice 
with  my  whole  heart,  even  while  I abide  and  weep 
in  my  captivity,  and  call  to  mind  my  everlasting 
inheritance  in  heaven,  which,  as  God,  Thou  hast 
prepared  for  me,  which,  when  lost,  as  Saviour,  Thou 
hast  repurchased  for  me,  which,  as  Father,  Thou 
bequeathest  to  me. 

And  because  it  is  meet  and  just  that  I do  love 
Thee  more  than  myself,  and  whatsoever  is  my  own; 
so,  in  like  manner,  it  is  right  and  wdiolesome  that 
I do  rejoice  more  at  Thy  beatitude  than  at  my  own 
happiness,  either  present  or  future. 

And  in  reality,  Lord  Jesus,  I do  rejoice  more  in- 
tensely on  account  of  Thy  glory  and  blessedness  than 
on  account  of  any  honor  or  exaltation  of  my  own, — 
on  account  of  any  joy  or  consolation  whatever. 


CHAPTER  IV. 


545 


But  I also  rejoice,  with  all  my  heart,  at  the  very 
joy  wherewith  Thy  Heart  is  replenished  by  the 
happiness,  the  devotedness,  the  love  of  so  many 
souls,  throughout  the  earth,  consecrated  to  Thee. 

8.  Grant,  O most  kind  Jesus,  that  I,  too,  may  be 
of  the  number  of  those  who  in  return  love  Thee, 
their  pure  and  generous  Lover,  with  so  great  a 
purity  and  generosity. 

I ask  not  for  the  singular  and  marvelous  favors 
granted  to  them  so  frequently  and  so  abundantly: 
Thee,  O my  Jesus,  Thyself  do  I ask,  as  a reward 
of  my  labors  and  sorrows,  if  I have  endured  any 
for  Thy  sake,  and  as  my  sole  happiness  in  all 
things. 

Not  the  riches  or  the  pleasures  of  this  world,  not 
the  things  which  flatter  nature,  not  even  merely 
sensible  consolations,  can  render  me  happy.  My 
bliss  is,  O most  sweet  Jesus,  to  repose  on  Thy 
Heart,  to  enjoy  Thee. 

Hard,  indeed,  is  all  rest  which  does  not  recline 
on  Thy  Heart:  Vain  are  all  things  which  are  not 
referred  to  Thee:  meaningless,  whatsoever  is  not 
in  harmony  with  the  sentiments  of  Thy  Heart: 
tasteless,  whatsoever  is  not  seasoned  with  the  unc- 
tion of  Thy  love. 

Grant  me  only,  that,  by  divine  union,  I may  pos- 
sess Thee,  love  Thee  as  purely,  as  generously  as  I 
am  able;  and  I willingly  abandon  all  the  rest  to 
others:  by  this  gift  alone  I shall  be  most  blissful 
with  Thee. 


546 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  V. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  IS  THE  HEART 
OF  HIS  HOLY  CHURCH. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Heart,  Child,  which 
lives  in  the  Sacrament,  is  the  heart  of  My  Church, 
which  is  My  mystical  Body. 

This,  My  Body,  is  a living  one,  endowed  with  a 
soul.  That  soul  is  the  principle  of  the  supernatu- 
ral life,  which  the  Body  lives. 

This  principle  of  life  proceeds  from  My  divine 
Heart:  for  out  of  My  Heart  the  Church  was  made; — 
which  is  evidently  to  be  understood,  not  of  the 
members,  not  of  the  Body,  but  of  the  soul. 

Many  members,  indeed,  but  one  Body,  which,  by 
the  divine  principle,  My  Heart  animates,  and  fos- 
ters, that  My  life  may  be  made  manifest  in  the 
Body. 

The  Church,  therefore,  consisting  of  a Body, 
which  is  its  human  element,  and  a soul,  which  is 
the  divine  element,  subsists  as  a moral  individual- 
ity in  the  oneness  of  person,  and  in  the  participa- 
tion of  the  human  and  divine  nature. 

As  the  vine,  bv  its  influence,  communicates  the 
life-giving  sap  to  the  branches  when  properly  dis- 
posed, so  do  I,  to  the  properly  disposed  members 
of  the  Church,  communicate  the  divine  principle  of 
Life. 

And  as  the  vine  and  the  branches  are  one,  so  am 
I and  the  Church,  in  a manner,  one. 

Truly,  then,  am  I and  the  Church  intimately 


CHAPTER  V. 


547 


united,  not  only  by  a moral,  but  also  by  a substantial 
union;  not  by  a sensible,  but  a spiritual  union; 
not  by  an  hypostatic,  but  nevertheless  by  a per- 
sonal union,  in  this  sense,  that  I am  so  united  to 
the  Church,  that  she  constitutes  with  Me  one  moral 
personality,  receiving  from  Me  her  principal  part, 
her  soul,  the  divine  principle  of  supernatural  Life, 
and  having,  at  the  same  time,  members,  each  of 
them  personalities,  in  another  respect,  which  sub- 
sist by  and  for  themselves,  truly  distinct  and  merely 
human  personalities. 

2.  Thus  united  to  Me,  thus  animated  by  a divine 
principle,  the  Church  lives,  in  some  manner,  a di- 
vine Life,  a supernatural  Life,  a Life  of  merits 
worthy  of  everlasting  beatitude. 

Nay  more,  it  is  from  the  same  source  that  man 
is  enabled  to  begin  to  be  a member  of  the  Church, 
when,  in  Baptism,  he  is  regenerated  by  the  water 
and  the  Spirit  of  My  Heart,  as  the  Scripture  says: 
We  were  all  baptized  into  one  body,  whether  Jews 
or  Gentiles,  whether  bondmen  or  free. 

For  this  did  the  water  flow  from  My  opened  Side, 
the  symbol  of  Baptism,  which  is  the  laver  of  regen- 
eration. 

By  the  same  principle,  likewise,  are  the  members 
of  the  Church  intimately  united.  The  faithful 
are,  indeed,  gently  and  happily  bound  together 
among  themselves  by  many  links;  but  in  the  Sac- 
rament of  the  love  of  My  Heart,  they  become,  as 
it  were,  incorporated  with  Me  and  endowed  with 
My  Spirit,  and  thus  they  become  incomparably 
more  closely,  more  sweetly,  and  more  perfectly 
united  together. 

And  this  is  the  mystery  of  love,  whereof  the 


548 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Apostle  speaks,  when  he  says:  Although  many,  we 
are  one  body,  who  partake  of  one  Bread.  One  body 
and  one  spirit. 

What  wonder,  then,  if  the  faithful  should  pos- 
sess but  one  heart,  My  Heart,  of  whose  fullness  all 
receive  the  Spirit  of  Life? 

For,  as  in  the  natural  body  the  blood,  with  its 
life-giving  power,  starts  from  the  heart,  and  dif- 
fuses itself  through  all,  even  the  most  remote  and 
the  least,  parts  which  present  no  obstruction;  so  the 
principle  of  the  supernatural  Life  proceeds  from 
My  Heart,  and  is  imparted  to  all,  and  every  one  of 
the  members  of  My  mystical  Body,  that  present  no 
obstacle. 

3.  By  this  divine  power  not  only  does  the  Church 
live,  but  at  the  same  time  that  her  members  are  in- 
timately united,  by  this  she  is  nourished,  endowed 
with  vigor,  and  preserved  in  the  perpetual  bloom 
of  youth. 

Yea,  if  any  member  is  weak,  or  even,  by  the 
abuse  of  his  free  will,  has  hindered  or  cast  aside  My 
life-giving  influence  and  communication,  so  as  to 
become  supernaturally  dead;  so  long  as  he  cleaves 
to  the  Body  of  the  Church,  he  can  recover  life  it- 
self and  supernatural  health  from  My  Heart,  if,  by 
the  Sacrament  of  Penance,  he  cleanses  himself  in  the 
bath  of  the  life-restoring  and  purifying  Blood  of  My 
Heart,  and  thus  removes  the  obstacle  or  hindrance. 

But  the  living  members  of  the  Church,  as  they 
are  animated  by  My  Spirit,  as  they  are  constantly 
nourished  by  the  influence  of  My  Heart,  as,  lastly, 
they  abide  in  Me  and  I in  them,  bring  forth  much 
fruit,  true  and  permanent  fruit,  fruit  of  life  ever- 
lasting. 


CHAPTER  V. 


549 


All  false  religions  and  sects, — as  they  neither  do 
nor  can  receive  Life  from  My  divine  Heart, — since 
they  are  altogether  cut  off  from  My  mystical 
Body, — are  soulless  beings,  destitute  of  the  princi- 
ple of  the  supernatural  Life;  and,  therefore,  they 
cannot  bear  genuine  and  saving  fruit.  For,  as  the 
branch  of  the  vine  cannot  bear  fruit  of  itself,  un- 
less it  abide  in  the  vine,  so  neither  can  men,  unless 
they  abide  in  Me. 

Do  not  then  wonder,  if  the  sects  and  false  reli- 
gions, like  branches  lopped  off,  wither,  decay,  and 
finally  perish  altogether. 

4.  If  these  things,  whereby  the  Church  thus 
lives,  flourishes,  and  brings  forth  fruit,  are  marvel- 
ous and  sweet,  still  more  wonderful  and  sweeter  far 
are  those  other  favors  which  I impart  to  her,  and 
whereby  she  has  a resemblance  to  Myself. 

For,  whatsoever  I have  by  nature,  the  Church 
according  to  her  capacity,  has  of  Me  by  grace. 

And,  since  I,  who  am  the  Holy  One,  animate  the 
Church  with  the  divine  principle  of  Life,  and  have 
her  so  united  to  Me,  that  we  are,  as  it  were,  one, 
she  is  necessarily  holy,  not  only  outwardly,  by  her 
origin,  by  her  end,  and  the  means  she  employs  to 
attain  to  eternal  bliss,  but  also  inwardly,  by  her 
very  soul,  wherein,  properly  speaking,  holiness  re- 
sides. 

By  the  perpetual  union  and  influence  of  My 
Heart,  I perfect  her  in  holiness,  that  I may  exhibit 
her  as  a Church,  glorious,  without  blemish,  or 
wrinkle,  or  aught  of  the  kind. 

I cannot  err:  therefore  neither  can  the  Church. 
Should  she  err,  I Myself  should  err:  but  I am  the 
infallible  truth,  whence  also  she  herself  is  infallible. 


55o 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


The  words  which  the  Father  gave  Me,  I gave  tc 
her:  and  I unfolded  their  meaning,  that,  under  the 
guidance  of  My  Holy  Spirit,  she  might  understand 
and  keep  them. 

The  Church,  which  is  My  Body,  dies  not,  be- 
cause I die  no  more;  but  so  she  remains,  until  I 
come,  in  glory,  at  the  end  of  the  world. 

I Jesus  yesterday,  and  to-day:  the  same  also 
forever:  and,  therefore,  My  Heart,  which  vivifies 
and  preserves  the  Church,  nurses  and  fills  her  with 
vigor,  sanctifies  her  by  Its  holiness,  and  consoli- 
dates her  by  Its  truth ; endows  her  also  with  Its  own 
perpetual  Life,  and  imparts  to  her  a bright  immor- 
tality. 

5.  Learn  hence,  My  Child,  how  worthy  of  thy 
veneration,  how  worthy  of  thy  love  is  the  Church, 
who  is  so  intimately  united  to  Me,  and  represents 
My  Own  Self  so  completely,  that  she  may  justly 
say:  He  that  sees  Me,  sees  also  Christ. 

Be  glad,  Child,  rejoice  with  all  thy  heart,  be- 
cause thou  art  a member  of  this  My  mystical  Body, 
than  which  there  is  naught  seen  on  earth  more 
beauteous,  more  noble,  more  marvelous. 

If  thou  lovest  Me,  love  also  My  Church,  for 
which  I gave  Myself  up,  and  than  which,  of  ad 
the  things  that  are  made,  in  heaven  and  in  earth, 
there  is  nothing  dearer  to  My  Heart. 

Above  all,  in  the  most  Holy  Sacrament  of  My 
love,  thou  wilt  be  more  closely  united  in  Me  to  the 
Church,  and  there  wilt  thou  better  learn  of  My 
Heart  her  spirit. 

Whosoever  wishes  to  know  the  spirit  of  the 
Church,  must  learn  the  Spirit  of  My  Heart;  be- 
cause the  Spirit  of  both  is  one  and  the  same. 


CHAPTER  V. 


551 


The  Church  must  be  considered  in  the  same 
spirit  wherewith  she  is  animated:  and  her  manner 
of  acting  must  be  viewed,  not  in  a worldly  sense, 
but  in  that  spiritual  sense  by  which  she  is  moved 
when  acting. 

O!  if  all  knew  the  sentiments  of  the  Church — 
which  far  surpass  the  sentiments  of  the  best  of 
mothers,  since  hers  are  the  very  sentiments  of  My 
Heart; — how  fondly  would  they  love  the  Church! 
how  completely  would  they  approve  all  her  works1 

Do  thou  pray,  My  Child,  that  all  may  know  and 
love  the  Church,  that  they  may  be  worthy  mem- 
bers of  this  Body,  animated  with  the  Spirit  of  Life: 
members  by  whom  I may  be  honored  and  glorified. 

Do  thou  pray,  much  and  frequently,  that  all  may 
be  invigorated  with  the  sentiments  of  My  Heart 
and  increase  throughout  therein,  until  they  all  meet 
into  a perfect  Body,  and  be  joined  in  fellowship 
with  the  Angels  and  Saints,  who,  in  heaven,  are 
confirmed  in  union  with  My  Heart. 

6.  Meanwhile,  My  Child,  have  a special  care, 
that  thou  abide  in  Me,  not  by  faith,  hope,  and 
charity  alone,  but  also  by  means  of  the  Sacrament, 
by  a perfect  union. 

This  is  the  one,  the  necessary  thing  for  thee, 
that  thou  be  united  with  Me.  From  this  union 
arise  for  thee  life,  and  vigor,  and  perfection,  and 
holiness. 

The  more  closely  thou  art  united  with  Me,  and 
the  better  disposed  thou  keepest  thyself,  the  more 
copious  streams  of  graces,  and  supernal  blessings, 
thou  wilt  draw  upon  thyself  from  My  Heart,  at  all 
times,  indeed,  but,  chiefly,  in  holy  Communion. 

Hence  thou  wilt  bear  much  fruit  of  holiness 


552 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK, 


whereby  thou  wilt  show  forth  the  divine  power  of 
My  Heart,  and  promote  Its  true  glory. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord,  our  God! 
how  wonderful,  how  lovely  is  Thy  Heart!  Who 
should  not  be  astonished  at  the  depth  of  the  mys- 
teries of  Its  power!  who  should  not  be  moved  by 
the  boundless  tokens  of  Its  love! 

The  taking  upon  Thyself  of  our  nature,  was  in- 
deed a great  and  marvelous  work  of  Thy  love;  but 
O,  how  much  greater,  how  much  more  marvelous 
was  the  giving  of  Thyself  in  the  Sacrament! 

In  the  Incarnation  Thou  didst  assume  our  hu- 
manity: but  in  the  Communion  Thou  bountifully 
givest  us  Thy  own  Divinity,  and  grantest  us  Thy 
own  Humanity. 

By  assuming  our  nature,  Thou  didst  come  down 
to  us,  and  live  a mortal  life;  but,  by  communicat- 
ing Thyself  to  us  in  the  Sacrament,  Thou  raisest 
us  up  to  Thyself,  and  impartest  to  us  a divine 
Life. 

When  Thou  becamest  man,  Thou  didst  redeem 
and  gather  us  together:  by  becoming  the  food  of 
our  life,  Thou  unitest  us  to  Thyself,  that  wre  may  be 
perfected  in  Thee  and  through  Thee. 

O Lord!  how  prodigious,  how  delightful  is  the 
love  of  Thy  Heart  for  us,  for  whom  Thou  workest 
such  mighty  things! 

Would  that  all  might  know  and  love  these  won- 
ders so  stupendous,  so  deserving  of  love!  Would 
that  I possessed  the  hearts  of  all,  that  I might  con- 
secrate them  to  Thy  love. 

8.  O Jesus,  the  life  and  delight  of  my  soul!  how 
unutterable  is  the  love  wherewith  Thou  didst  love 
me! 


CHAPTER  V. 


553 


For,  how  great  a condescension  of  Thy  love  was 
it,  that,  by  nature,  Thou  didst  create  me  in  Thy 
image!  But  how  incomparably  greater  was  that 
love  whereby,  through  grace,  Thou  didst  raise  me 
to  Thy  likeness!  What  shall  I say,  what  shall  I 
think  of  that,  whereby  Thou  didst  elevate  me  to 
an  intimate  union  with  Thyself!  Who  am  I,  and 
who  art  Thou,  that  Thou  dealest  in  this  manner 
with  me! 

O love  incomprehensible!  O most  sweet  Jesus, 
lovely  above  all  things  lovely!  How  shall  I not 
die,  if  I love  thee  not!  how  shall  I live,  if  I live 
not  for  Thee! 

O Lord,  the  principle,  the  support,  the  end  of  my 
life!  grant,  I beseech  Thee,  grant  that  I may  live 
united  with  Thee,  that  I may  live  through  Thee, 
that  I may  live  for  Thee,  to  the  glory  and  joy  of 
Thy  Heart,  whereby  Thou  effectest  such  marvelous, 
such  delightful  things.* 


* The  things  whereof  the  author  speaks  in  this  Chapter 
are  very  useful  and  consoling.  But,  although  there  is  nothing 
in  them  which  cannot  be  understood,  yet  it  may  be  of  use 
to  give  some  explanation,  and  to  develop  that  which,  in 
the  matter  here  treated,  may  be  asserted  upon  theological 
grounds. 

The  Head  of  the  mystical  Body  of  Christ,  or  of  the  Church, 
is  Christ;  its  members  are  the  faithful.  But  between  the 
Head  and  the  members,  as  the  author  concisely  says,  there 
exists  a union : 

1.  Substantial , not  simply  moral,  such  as  exists,  for  example, 
between  the  head  and  the  citizens  of  a commonwealth. 

2.  Spiritual , in  this  sense,  that  it  is  not  a physical  union, 
namely,  effected  by  a cohesion  or  a mingling  of  the  material 
parts  or  molecules,  except  during  the  time  that  the  sacred 
species  of  the  Eucharist  continue  in  a person.  But  it  is,  on 
this  account,  no  less  a substantial  union;  for  the  cohesion 


554 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  VI. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  UNITES  THE 
CHURCH  MILITANT  ON  EARTH  WITH  THE  CHURCH 
TRIUMPHANT  IN  HEAVEN. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  I am  estab- 
lished Head  over  the  whole  Church,  the  glorious 
part  whereof  triumphs  with  Me  in  heaven. 

This  part,  this  Church  Triumphant,  to  which 
the  rest  will  one  day  exultingly  ascend,  is  the 


and  mingling  of  material  entities  is  in  the  end  nothing  but 
accident.  It  is  in  this  union,  of  which  we  are  speaking,  that 
the  Spirit  of  Christ  informs  the  living  members. 

3.  Personal , in  some  manner.  For  this  whole  mystical  Body 
forms  one  person.  And  Christ,  as  the  Head,  gives  that  which 
is  the  principal  in  this  personality.  He,  indeed,  is  not  the 
whole  and  sole  person,  since  the  person  is  effected  by  the 
whole  subject,  for  which  the  members  also  are  to  be  taken 
into  account;  but  He  is  that  whence  the  members  have 
spiritual  life,  and  whereby  they  are  informed  and  governed. 
This,  however,  is  not  an  hypostatic  union,  which  is  also  called 
personal.  For,  in  the  hypostatic  union,  the  Person  of  the 
Word  so  assumed  the  human  nature,  that  in  this  nature,  in 
no  respect  any  personality  obtains,  and  that  there  is  in  every 
respect  only  one  Person,  "that  of  the  Word;  but  in  the  union 
of  which  we  are  speaking,  every  member  is  already  a sub- 
ject or  person;  not,  indeed,  in  as  much  as  he  is  a member  of 
Christ’s  mystical  Body,  but  in  as  much  as  this  member  can, 
in  another  respect,  exist  for  himself,  and  can  be  the  principle 
which , as  the  Schoolmen  say,  of  actions.  But  the  human  na- 
ture in  Christ  is  only  the  principle  by  which  of  actions,  and  can 
be,  in  no  respect,  the  principle  which  of  the  same:  therefore, 
this  union  is  hypostatic  and  personal.  On  the  other  hand,  the 
members  of  Christ’s  mystical  Body  are,  indeed,  the  principle 
by  which  of  actions,  for  as  much  as  they  are  considered  as 


CHAPTER  VI, 


555 


society  of  all  the  Angels  and  Saints,  illustrious  for 
victories,  crowned  with  laurels  everlasting,  wholly 
and  immutably  devoted  to  My  glory  and  love,  by 
far  the  most  pleasing  and  most  dear  to  My  Heart. 

What  wonder,  then,  if  My  Heart  was  carried 
away  with  this  glorious  portion  into  the  land  of 
the  living,  into  the  kingdom  of  everduring  bliss? 
But  behold!  at  the  same  time,  by  a prodigy  of 
love,  It  was  retained  in  the  Sacrament  with  the 
Church  Militant. 

In  this  manner,  therefore,  It  is  present  with  both, 


members  of  the  mystical  Body;  but  they  can  exist  and  be 
considered  as  so  many  principles  which  of  actions,  for  as  much 
as  they  are  considered  single  or  individual  subjects.  Hence 
it  is  quite  manifest  that  the  hypostatic  union  is  greater,  more 
intimate,  and  more  admirable  than  the  one  of  which  we 
speak. 

We  are,  however,  truly  members  of  Christ,  and  we  can  be 
said  to  be:  “Flesh  of  His  Flesh”  (according  to  St.  Paul),  just 
as  the  soul,  which  is  the  principal  in  man,  can  say  of  the 
members  of  her  body:  This  is  my  member;  I inform  such 
and  such  other  member:  whence  it  is  truly  her  member. 
Whence  also  Christ  calls  us  rightly  His  true  members,  His 
flesh,  etc. 

That  which  principally  constitutes  or  unites  this  mystical 
Body,  according  to  some,  is  the  Holy  Eucharist.  According  to 
this,  they  deem,  that  these  words  of  Christ  are  explained  best 
and  in  the  most  obvious  meaning : “Unless  ye  eat  the  Flesh 
of  the  Son  of  man  ...  ye  shall  not  have  life  in  you.”  And 
those  others:  “ He  that  eats  My  Flesh  . . . abides  in  Me  and  I 
in  him.” 

The  life  of  which  there  is  here  treated,  whereby  Christ  in- 
forms the  members  of  His  mystical  Body,  is  not  animal 
life,  as  is  plain,  but  supernatural  life,  as  the  author  says. 
Whence  such  members  as  are  corrupted  by  mortal  sin,  are 
indeed  members  of  this  mystical  Body,  but  dried  up  and  dead; 
and,  if  they  do  not  return  to  life,  to  be  one  day  wholly  cut  off 
from  the  Body.  (P.  J.  A.  Cens.) 


556 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


and  joining  both  by  Itself  and  in  Itself,  It  makes 
the  two  one. 

2.  Both  have  in  Me  the  same  victim:  the  Tri- 
umphant, indeed,  has  the  Lamb  standing  as  if  slain, 
a victim  which  is  not  now  immolated,  but,  being 
immolated  formerly,  is  adored:  and  the  Church 
Militant  possesses  the  same  Lamb  of  God  that 
takes  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  a continued 
Sacrifice,  which  is  offered  in  every  place — a clean 
Oblation. 

Both,  likewise,  use  the  same  table:  the  one,  in 
heaven,  is  filled  without  mystery  with  the  Bread  of 
Angels,  for  which,  as  they  eat  thereof,  they  are 
ever  longing,  and  wherewith  they  are  at  the  same 
time,  ever  satiated:  the  other,  on  earth,  enjoys  the 
same  food,  under  the  vail  of  mystery,  in  a manner 
adapted  to  her  present  condition. 

Lastly,  both  are  refreshed  at  the  same  fountain: 
for  the  one  that  reigns  above,  is  inebriated  with 
perpetual  delights,  fiorn  the  torrent  of  divine  pleas- 
ure, springing  up  from  My  Heart  into  everlasting 
life:  the  other,  that  struggles  here  below,  draws, 
with  gladness,  from  the  same  gushing  spring,  the 
waters  of  grace,  of  consolation,  and  of  blessedness. 

3.  Making,  in  this  manner,  both  parts  one,  My 
Heart  brings  it  to  pass,  in  the  sacred  Tabernacle, 
that  there  exists  between  them  a continued  and 
never-ceasing  communication  and  fellowship. 

For,  wherever  I am  in  the  most  Holy  Sacrament, 
the  Angels  are  continually  descending  from  heaven, 
to  minister  to  Me,  to  adore,  to  love,  to  praise  Me. 

And  astonished  at  the  love  that  forces  Me,  so 
marvelously  and  so  gently,  to  abide  with  men,  they, 
as  in  heaven  before  the  throne  of  My  glory,  so  UDon 


CHAPTER  VI. 


557 


earth  before  the  Sacrament  of  My  love,  with  unceas- 
ing voice  cry  out:  Holy,  holy,  holy,  Lord  God  Om- 
nipotent! all  the  earth  is  full  of  Thy  glory. 

And  when  they  depart,  behold!  they  mount  up 
into  heaven,  having  golden  vials,  full  of  odors, 
which  are  the  prayers  of  the  Saints, — of  the  faith- 
ful worshiping  Me  in  spirit,  with  truth  and  holi- 
ness: these  they  offer  up  before  the  throne  of  the 
divine  Majesty,  and  expose  the  wants  of  their  com- 
panions, who  are  combating  upon  earth. 

At  the  intercession  of  the  Angels  and  Saints,  and 
at  My  Heart’s  own  desire,  mercy  and  grace  descend 
to  conscb  and  refresh  mortals,  and  fill  them  with 
gladness  from  above. 

And  thus,  Child,  whilst  the  inhabitants  of 
heaven  fully  enjoy  everlasting  bliss,  the  faithful 
here  are  unceasingly  being  prepared  by  the  most 
Holy  Sacrament  for  the  same  blessedness:  and  they 
that  are  prepared  are  constantly  entering  the  heav- 
enly tabernacles. 

4.  Therefore,  in  My  Heart  is  the  Church,  the 
one  in  heaven  as  well  as  the  one  upon  earth,  united. 
Itself  is  the  principle,  by  which  the  whole  becomes  one, 
and  the  parts  have  a mutual  and  continual  intercourse. 

For  it  pleased  Me  to  join  together  therein  all 
things,  whether  in  heaven  or  on  earth;  so  that  all, 
being  rooted  and  strengthened  in  the  same,  may 
abound  through  My  Heart. 

It  was  necessary  that  this  should  be  done,  My 
Child:  for,  unless  I had  liberally  bestowed  the 
grace  of  My  Heart,  that  men,  fortified,  yea,  elevated 
thereby,  might  attain  to  the  heavenly  fellowship, 
they  could  never,  by  the  powers  of  their  own  nature, 
have  reached  that  supernatural  beatitude. 


558 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


In  this  manner,  then,  didst  thou  draw  nigh  to 
the  City  of  the  living  God,  the  heavenly  Jerusalem, 
to  the  fellowship  of  many  thousands  of  Angels,  and 
to  the  Church  of  the  first-born,  who  are  written  in 
the  heavens. 

5.  Admire  thou,  My  Child,  these  sublime  dis- 
pensations: revere  these  mysteries  of  love:  take  ad- 
vantage, for  the  advancement  of  thy  soul,  of  so 
great  a goodness  of  My  Heart,  which  grants  thee, 
although  a weak  mortal,  to  hold  intimate  commu- 
nion with  the  Saints  and  Angels,  and  from  the  same 
treasure  with  them  to  draw  forth  blissfulness. 

See,  how  the  Church  Militant,  enraptured  with 
this  love  of  My  Heart,  vies,  by  her  praises  and  mani- 
festations of  gratefulness,  to  emulate  the  Church 
Triumphant. 

For,  as  the  Church  in  heaven  has  no  rest,  but 
without  end  praises  Me,  forever  glorifies  Me:  so 
the  Church  on  earth  ceases  not  to  honor,  to  cele- 
brate Me. 

Let  not  thy  sentiments,  My  Child,  be  different 
from  the  sentiments  of  the  Church,  thy  Mother: 
but  have  thou  the  same  sentiments  that  she  enter- 
tains. 

When  thou  appearest  before  My  beloved  Taber- 
nacle, expand  thy  heart,  give  thyself  up  to  devo- 
tion, give  glory  to  the  Lord  thy  God. 

Unite  thyself  with  the  Church  Militant;  join 
thyself  also  to  the  Church  Triumphant:  thus,  as- 
sociated with  the  faithful,  and  with  the  Spirits 
above,  praise  thy  Saviour- God  with  the  joyful  ex- 
ultation of  mouth  and  heart. 

Fall  prostrate  with  veneration,  adore,  entreat, 
eftjoy  My  presence. 


CHAPTER  VI 


SS9 


6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple — O most  loving 
Jesus!  how  admirable  is  the  love  of  Thy  Heart, 
whereby,  to  cheer  and  console  me  on  earth.  Thou 
didst  cause  me,  in  some  manner,  to  enjoy  here  be- 
low the  bliss  and  companionship  of  heaven! 

Thus,  O love  incomprehensible!  thus  Thou 
didst  soothe,  in  a wonderful  way,  the  bitterness  of 
my  banishment;  yea,  didst  change  it  into  heavenly 
sweetness. 

And  should  I not  love  Thee  after  this?  should 
I not  praise  Thee?  should  not  Thy  love  be  ever  in 
my  heart,  Thy  praise  upon  my  lips  ? 

Yea,  I will  love,  I will  praise  Thee,  O Lord:  I 
will  love  and  praise  Thee  as  much  as  I can,  and  I 
wish  that  I were  able  as  much  as  I ought. 

I invite  heaven  and  earth  to  join  me  in  loving 
and  praising  Thee. 

Enravished  with  love  for  Thee,  let  the  Angels 
and  Saints,  all  the  just  and  the  faithful  praise  Thee 
in  the  most  sweet  Sacrament!  Let  the  Triumphant 
together  with  the  Militant  Church,  cause  heaven  and 
earth  to  resound  with  hymns  of  love  and  praise! 

Nay,  let  all  things  created,  visible  and  invisi- 
ble, animate  and  inanimate,  that  do  Thy  bidding, 
not  cease  day  nor  night  to  praise  and  glorify  Thee, 
because  Thou  art  worthy  of  every  praise,  of  every 
glory,  world  without  end 

7.  O Thou  most  charming  of  friends,  Jesus*  Thou 
the  bliss  of  all  the  Angels  and  Saints!  Where  on 
earth  shall  I seek  for  happiness,  if  I do  not  seek 
for  it  here! 

Here  I become  the  companion  of  the  Saints, 
here  I dwell  in  the  midst  of  Angels,  here  I find 
the  very  delights  of  heaven. 


560 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


O ineffable  goodness!  O infinite  sweetness!  Thou 
who  drawest  to  thyself  from  above  the  heavenly 
Spirits,  draw  me  also  unto  Thee;  that  here  I 
may  rest,  here,  amid  the  Angels,  gaze  upon  Thee, 
adore  Thee,  praise  Thee,  supplicate  Thee. 

Whenever  I am  elsewhere  detained,  O do  Thou 
draw  hither  my  heart  and  mind;  that,  in  spirit 
at  least,  I may  be  here  with  Thee;  that,  by  frequent 
thought  and  affection,  I may  converse  with  Thee, 
may  be  occupied  with  Thee. 

What  can  I desire  better  or  sweeter  in  this  world 
than  here  to  enjoy  Thee?  Here  is  the  new  earthly 
Paradise,  where  I long  and  resolve  to  live,  until  I 
am  transported  hence  into  Thy  heavenly  kingdom, 
and  triumph  forever  with  the  Angels  and  Saints. 


CHAPTER  VII. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  UNITES  TO' 
GETHER  THE  CHURCH,  THAT  SUFFERS  IN  PURGA- 
TORY, WITH  THE  MILITANT  AND  TRIUMPHANT 
CHURCH. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus — My  Child,  none  shall 
enter  the  kingdom  of  heaven,  the  Church  Triumph- 
ant, unless  he  is  holy,  stainless.  For  nothing  de- 
filed shall  enter  therein. 

Whosoever  leaves  this  world,  defiled  with  sin 
which  may  be  forgiven  in  the  world  to  come,  shall 
be  saved,  yet  so  as  by  fire. 

In  this  fire,  My  Child,  is  the  Suffering  Church, 
a multitude  of  souls,  that  formerly,  beneath  My 


CHAPTER  VII. 


56l 

standard,  fought  for  My  sake  against  the  flesh,  the 
world,  and  the  devil,  but  in  the  battle  were,  in  one 
way  or  another,  wanting  in  their  duty,  and,  during 
life,  did  not  repair  their  shortcomings 

They  suffer,  My  Child,  and  the  more  vehement;^ 
since,  as  they  now  understand  things  more  fully, 
they  also  long  the  more  ardently  to  be  with  Me  in 
the  triumph  of  the  heavenly  kingdom. 

Relying  on  this  certain  hope  of  bliss,  they  expe- 
rience on  this  very  account  more  violent  sufferings: 
for  hope  delayed  afflicts  the  soul. 

And,  although  the  soul  is  glad  to  be  there 
cleansed,  and  would  not  go  thence  uncleansed,  she, 
however,  finds  no  rest,  but,  impelled  by  an  exces- 
sive longing,  she  cries  out:  When  shall  I come, 
oh  when  shall  I come  and  appear  before  the  face 
of  my  God! 

2.  These  souls  I cherish,  My  Child,  because  in 
life  they  loved  Me,  and  did  not  unto  the  end  leave 
My  standard. 

Their  names  are  written  in  the  Book  of  Life,  and 
their  rewards  are  safely  laid  up  in  My  Heart. 

Meanwhile,  the  grace  of  My  Heart  informs  them, 
the  virtue  of  My  Heart  relieves  them,  the  bound- 
less love  of  My  Heart  comforts  them. 

Thus,  through  My  Heart,  is  the  Church  Suffering 
vivified,  as  well  as  the  Church  Militant,  and  the 
Triumphant:  and  in  My  Heart  these  three  are  one. 

Animated  by  the  supernatural  life  of  My  Heart, 
the  one  that  is  glorified  in  heaven,  the  one  that  is 
being  cleansed  in  Purgatory,  the  one  that  combats 
upon  earth,  all  concur  in  one  and  the  same  end, 
which  is  lasting  triumph  for  the  unending  glory  of 
the  divine  Majesty. 


562 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


3.  And,  since  all  receive  life  out  of  My  Heart, 
and  return  the  fruit  of  this  life  to  My  Heart,  all 
good  things  become  common  among  them  in  My 
Heart;  the  charity  whereof,  penetrating  into  heaven, 
the  earth,  and  Purgatory,  distributes  them  to  all 
the  members,  to  the  advantage  of  each  and  all. 

But  as  the  souls  in  Purgatory  can  no  longer  gain 
any  merit  for  themselves,  and  cannot  be  assisted  by 
men,  except  through  their  suffrages,  My  Heart 
drew  out  of  Its  love  a means  to  help  them  in  the 
most  bountiful  manner. 

For  It  willed  that  the  Eucharistic  Sacrifice  should 
be  applicable  to  them,  in  view  whereof,  the  divine 
Majesty  either  sets  them  free,  or,  certainly,  shortens 
or  lessens  their  sufferings. 

It  is,  then,  owing  to  My  Heart  that  those  souls 
are  in  this  manner  relieved  and  purified  by  the 
virtue  of  My  Blood,  which  is  applied  to  them 
through  the  Holy  Sacrifice. 

Thus,  My  Child,  Purgatory  is  emptied,  heaven 
filled;  and  to  those  sojourning  on  earth  the  sweetest 
consolation  is  given,  in  regard  to  them  that  have 
departed  this  life. 

4.  Behold,  therefore,  how  beautiful  is  the  whole 
Church,  all  the  parts  whereof  are  perpetually  com- 
municating with  each  other  in  My  Heart. 

The  Militant  part,  adorned  with  the  victories  al- 
ready obtained,  and  marching  onward  in  pursuit  of 
new  ones,  rejoices  with  those  that  rejoice  in  the 
Triumphant,  and  weeps  with  them  that  weep  in  the 
Suffering  Church. 

Love,  compassion,  joy,  prayers  are  ever  passing 
to  and  fro  through  every  part. 

Rejoice,  My  Child,  that  thou  art  not  of  the  number 


CHAPTER  VH. 


$63 


oi  them  that  have  no  hope  beyond  the  tomb,  but 
of  those  whom, — united  as  they  are  in  My  Heart, — • 
neither  the  distance  of  places,  nor  the  empire  of 
death  can  separate. 

5.  Take  to  thyself  the  Spirit  of  My  Heart:  as 
often  as  thou  art  present  at  the  most  Holy  Sacri- 
fice, humbly  remember  the  faithful  departed:  foi 
whilst  the  sacred  and  adorable  victim  lies  before 
thee,  it  is  especially  a wholesome  thought,  a most 
religious  practice,  to  pray  for  the  dead,  that  they 
may  be  loosed  from  sins. 

In  the  same  Spirit  also,  if  thou  gainest  any  in- 
dulgence, which  may  be  beneficial  to  them,  apply 
the  same  for  their  relief  and  consolation. 

And  when  thou  art  united  to  Me  in  Holy  Com- 
munion, then,  above  all,  do  thou  commend  to  My 
Heart  those  whom  thou  didst  hold  dear  in  this 
world,  as  well  as  the  rest,  for  whom  it  is  proper 
that  thou  shouldst  pray. 

Call  to  mind,  Child,  with  how  great  a feeling  of 
gratefulness  and  love,  these  souls  will  endeavor  to 
repay  thee,  whom,  by  thy  prayers  and  suffrages, 
thou  didst  introduce  into  heavenly  bliss. 

This  devotion,  this  charity  toward  the  souls  suf- 
fering in  Purgatory,  is  a peculiar  characteristic  of 
the  Disciples  of  My  Heart;  who,  after  Its  example, 
transcend  the  bounds  of  this  world,  and  whomsoever 
they  find  capable  of  being  helped,  they  comfort  by 
their  charity. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet 
Jesus!  what  a Heart  is  Thine!  how  admirable! 
how  bountiful! 

For,  behold!  in  Thy  Heart,  I find  even  those 
whom  I had  lost  out  of  this  life;  and  I am  once 


564 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


more  united  with  them,  whom  in  this  life  I cher- 
ished. 

Here  I hold  with  them  an  intercourse  full  of 
sweetness:  here  I can  solace  both  them  and  myself. 

Making  use  with  thankfulness  of  this  most  con- 
soling means,  through  Thy  very  Heart,  I present  to 
Thee,  for  the  relief  of  the  souls  of  the  faithful  de- 
parted, the  fruit  of  every  Holy  Sacrifice  of  the  Mass 
wheresoever  offered. 

And,  in  union  therewith,  I offer  up  whatsoever 
good  works,  through  Thy  holy  grace,  I do  possess, 
that  Thou  mayst  deign  to  wash  away  all  the  defile- 
ments of  those  souls,  and  thus  make  them  worthy 
of  the  fellowship  of  the  Church  Triumphant. 

I also  offer  to  Thee  my  prayers  and  supplications, 
especially  for  my  departed  parents,  brothers,  sisters, 
friends;  for  all,  in  fine,  who  have  done  good  to  me, 
whether  in  things  temporal  or  spiritual. 

Those  souls  also  do  I specially  commend,  of 
whose  sufferings  I may,  in  any  manner,  have  been 
the  cause. 

But  particularly  do  I pray  for  those  departed, 
who,  in  the  present  life,  have  been  devoted  Disci- 
ples of  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart. 

Finally,  I do  humbly  entreat  Thee  for  them  all; 
that,  released  from  sufferings,  they  may  enter  into 
everlasting  joys,  and  there  be  mindful  of  me. 

7.  O Jesus,  Thou  who  consolest  all  Thine,  and 
renewest  all  things!  when  I am  here  with  Thee 
before  Thy  sacred  Tabernacle,  the  world  of  sense 
seems  to  vanish  away:  for  here  the  spiritual  world 
is  thrown  open  to  me:  and  oh!  how  vast,  how  mar- 
velous! with  what  mighty  and  countless  wonders 
does  it  appear  filled! 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


5^5 


Here  I hold  communion  with  the  Church  Tri- 
umphant in  heaven,  and  with  the  Church  that  is 
purified  in  Purgatory:  here  I converse,  in  freedom 
and  holiness,  with  the  Angels  and  all  the  inhabit- 
ants of  heaven:  here  I deal  with  my  kindred  and 
friends  who  dwell  in  the  invisible  world. 

And  to  whom  am  I indebted  for  all  this,  if  not  to 
Thy  Heart?  Here,  therefore,  here  is  the  place  of 
my  choice,  the  place  of  peace  and  repose,  the  place 
of  joy  and  consolation. 

O how  good  it  is  for  me  to  be  here,  most  bounti- 
ful Jesus,  source  of  every  good!  Let  others  go 
whither  they  prefer;  let  them  be  entertained  by  the 
objects  wherein  they  delight:  I,  so  often  as  Thy 
Will  may  grant  it  to  me,  I will  constantly  repair 
hither;  here  will  I entertain  myself  with  Thy  own; 
here  will  I treat  with  Thee,  heart  to  Heart,  in  the 
plenitude  of  thy  sweetness. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

OF  THE  INEFFABLE  OCCUPATIONS  OF  THE  MOST 
SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE  SACRAMENT, 
WITH  RESPECT  TO  HIS  FATHER. 

i.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — If  the  works  of 
Thy  Sacred  Heart,  Lord  Jesus,  in  regard  to  every 
portion  of  Thy  Church,  are  so  wonderful,  so  sub- 
lime, of  which  kind,  I pray,  are  Its  occupations 
with  respect  to  Thy  Father,  by  whom  Thou  art 


S66 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


loved  infinitely,  and  whom  Thou  also  lovest  infi- 
nitely ? 

These,  indeed,  are  mysteries  so  great,  that,  were 
any  one,  in  order  to  unfold  them,  to  speak  the  lan- 
guage of  men  and  Angels,  he  should  still  be  as  a 
child  that  knows  not  how  to  speak. 

Yea,  Lord,  these  are  secrets  which  it  is  not  given 
to  man  to  utter. 

Do  Thou  Thyself,  therefore,  reveal  them  to  us, 
so  much  as  Thou  knowest  them  to  be  useful  for 
Thy  glory  and  our  good;  that  we  may  be  enabled 
to  worship  and  love  Thee  worthily  in  Thy  most 
Holy  sacrament. 

2.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Listen  reverently,  My 
Child,  attend  religiously:  and  I will  unfold  to  thee 
the  divine  secrets. 

Here,  in  My  innermost  retreat,  in  the  light  un- 
created, I contemplate,  with  Heart  enraptured,  the 
divine  Essence,  and  am  infinitely  delighted  in  Its 
perfections. 

Hence,  My  Heart  is  inundated  with  unutterable 
joys:  and  It  is  now  the  more  abundantly  and  the 
more  delightfully  overflowed  with  these,  the  more 
It  was,  during  Its  mortal  life,  filled  with  bitterness. 

Amid  these  splendors,  amid  these  divine  ecstasies, 
the  Father  is  in  Me  and  I in  the  Father;  and, 
without  the  sound  of  words,  the  Father  speaks  to 
Me  and  I to  Him. 

Here  the  Father  communicates  to  Me  the  eternal 
counsels  of  His  Wisdom,  the  decrees  of  His  su- 
preme Omnipotence,  the  most  lovely  good  pleasure 
of  His  Goodness. 

These  My  Heart  embraces  in  return,  and  finds 
Its  pleasure  therein. 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


567 


3.  For  My  Heart  loves  the  Father  supremely , 
and  with  such  a love  for  Him  does  It  burn,  that  It 
never  grows  cool,  nor  loses  aught  of  Its  ardor. 

Behold,  My  Child,  a love  with  which  no  other 
heart  can  love  the  Father,  since  every  other  heart 
is  only  referred  and  united  to  Him  as  the  heart 
of  a son,  not  by  nature,  as  is  My  Heart,  but  solely 
by  adoption. 

I11  this,  then,  My  Heart  is  alone  and  unrivaled. 
Therefore,  also,  the  Father  is  delighted,  above  the 
love  of  all  the  Saints  and  Angels,  with  the  love  of 
My  Heart,  because  it  is  the  love  of  the  Heart  of 
His  only-begotten  Son. 

4.  As  I am  the  son  of  God  the  Father,  and  as 
all  things  which  the  Father  has  are  Mine,  I enjoy 
them  all,  I use  them  all  in  the  Holy  Spirit. 

Whatsoever  things  the  Father  does,  these  I also 
do:  I create,  preserve,  perfect  all  the  same  things 
with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Spirit. 

But  as  the  Son  of  Man,  I,  in  some  manner,  anni- 
hilate Myself  before  the  presence  of  the  Father, 
and  pour  forth,  before  Him/  perpetual  adorations. 

Here  I worship  His  divine  Wisdom,  Goodness, 
Power,  and  other  perfections,  in  such  a manner 
that  neither  the  Cherubim,  nor  Seraphim,  nor  any 
other  created  beings  can  so  glorify  the  same. 

5.  But,  whilst,  in  this  mystical  and  sublime  sol- 
itude of  the  divine  Sacrament,  I am  thus  alone 
treating  with  the  Father  in  the  Holy  Spirit,  My 
Heart  is  not  unfaithful,  so  as  to  forget  the  work  of 
Its  predilection  among  the  children  of  men. 

For  them  My  Heart  does  unceasingly  offer  to  the 
Father  Its  manifold  and  stupendous  sacrifices. 

If  any  there  are  infirm  or  drooping  in  spirit,  or 


568 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


dead,  here  It  prays  for  them  with  unspeakable 
groanings. 

And  It  pours  Itself  out,  with  all  Its  affections 
before  the  Father,  that  he  who  is  just,  may  be 
justified  still,  and  he  that  is  holy  may  be  still 
sanctified. 

Nor  do  I cease  with  My  Heart  to  offer  prayers 
and  supplications  for  all,  whom  I am  not  ashamed 
to  call  brethren  before  the  Father: 

Saying,  that  all  may  be  one;  as  Thou,  Father, 
in  Me,  and  I in  Thee,  so  they  also  may  be  one 
in  Us. 

I in  them  and  Thou  in  Me;  that  they  may  be 
made  perfect  in  one:  that  the  world  may  know 
that  Thou  hast  sent  Me,  and  hast  loved  them,  as 
Thou  also  hast  loved  Me. 

I pray  not  that  thou  wouldst  take  them  out  of 
the  world,  but  that  Thou  wouldst  keep  them  from 
evil.  Sanctify  them  in  the  truth. 

Father,  I will  that  where  I am,  they  also  whom 
Thou  hast  given  Me,  may  be  with  Me;  that  they 
may  see  My  glory  which  Thou  hast  given  Me. 

6.  Behold,  My  Child,  the  occupations  in  regard 
to  the  Father,  which,  here  in  the  holy  Tabernacle, 
My  Heart  uninterruptedly  continues. 

Do  thou  endeavor,  when  here  thou  appearest  in 
My  presence,  to  imitate  these  occupations  of  My 
Heart. 

Raise  thy  heart  above  all  sensible  objects:  and 
with  the  Church,  thy  Mother,  who,  as  the  symbol 
of  her  faith,  keeps  a constant  light  burning  before 
the  most  Holy  Sacrament,  contemplate,  by  the  light 
of  Faith,  thy  God,  thy  Saviour,  present  to  thee. 

In  silence,  with  deep  reverence,  and  pious  affec- 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


tion,  meditate  on  all  those  things,  wherewith  M] 
Heart  is  here  employed. 

Hither  do  thou  frequently  resort,  My  Child,  here 
pour  out  thy  heart:  here  do  thou  love:  here  de- 
light in  My  Heart. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O how  marvelous, 
O how  divine  Thy  occupations,  my  Jesus,  in  the 
sacred  Tabernacle  ! 

These,  Lord,  these,  if  they  are  pondered,  if  they 
are  understood,  teach  that  which  neither  books  can 
show,  nor  talents  make  known. 

O divine  solitude  of  Jesus  in  the  Sacrament! 
here  is  the  fountain  of  heavenly  secrets:  this  is  the 
school  of  contemplation,  where  souls  are  taught  to 
rise  above  things  sensible,  to  go  to  the  Father,  and 
the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost;  to  gaze  upon  the 
wonderful  works  of  God,  to  pray  with  mind  and 
heart;  to  speculate  on  things  mystical  and  divine. 

The  eye  has  not  seen,  the  ear  has  not  heard,  no 
sense  has  perceived — by  faith  alone  it  is  descried, 
by  pure  love  it  is  tasted — how  great  a felicity,  how 
great  a sweetness,  how  great  an  abundance  of  all 
good  things  lies  here  concealed. 

Here,  Lord  Jesus,  is  the  retreat,  wherein,  at  rest 
Thyself,  Thou  puttest  all  things  to  rest;  wherein 
Thou  Thyself  occupied,  occupiest  us;  wherein,  Holy 
Thyself,  Thou  sanctifiest  us. 

Here  is  the  spot  which  the  Angels  surround: 
wherein  pure  souls  long  to  make  their  abode. 

Here,  most  sweet  Jesus,  here  will  I ever  seek 
Thee;  here,  I implore  Thee,  let  me  deserve,  in  Thy 
light,  to  behold  the  light  wherein  Thou  dwellest; 
to  be  occupied  with  Thee,  to  be  delighted  with 
the  wonders  which  Thou  workest  with  the  Father, 


57o 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


and  the  Holy  Ghost;  to  be  absorbed  by  the  flood 
of  divine  fire,  which  bursts  forth  from  Thy  Heart; 
in  fine,  to  be  transformed  in  Thee  by  love. 

Bring  me,  I beseech  Thee,  into  the  very  secrets 
of  Thy  Heart,  and  keep  me  with  Thee  in  this  di- 
vine repose,  where  all  merely  human  emotion  ceases, 
where  everything  that  moves,  springs  from  the 
Godhead,  and  tends  to  the  Godhead. 

If  I have  found  favor  in  Thy  eyes,  O Lord,  give 
me  admittance,  I entreat  Thee;  unite  me  with  Thee 
by  the  indissoluble  bond  of  love;  fill  all  my  facul- 
ties within  and  without,  that  I may  live  of  Thee 
and  for  Thee. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE 

BLESSED  SACRAMENT,  HONORS  HIS  FATHER  IN- 
FINITELY. 

i.  The  voice  oj  Jesus. — Now,  dearly  beloved,  is 
the  Son  of  man  glorified,  and  God  is  glorified  in 
Him. 

How  much,  thinkest  thou,  is  the  Father  glorified, 
how  much  is  he  honored  by  the  Son;  who,  for  the 
honor  and  glory  of  the  Father,  is  not  now  seen  on 
earth,  but  hidden  in  the  Sacrament? 

The  Father  is  worthy  of  all  worship,  praise,  and 
homage:  and,  therefore,  do  I,  in  this  sacred  mystery, 
exhibit  the  same  to  Him,  by  the  boundless  humili- 
ations to  which  I here  subject  Myself. 

So  much  the  more  is  the  Majesty  cf  God  the 


CHAPTER  IX. 


571 


Father  exalted,  the  more  the  Son,  made  man,  hum- 
bles Himself,  that  He  may  honor  the  Father. 

Measure,  if  thou  canst,  the  depth  of  humility, 
into  which  I here  descended  for  the  glory  of  God  the 
Father.  Into  a deep  abyss  I certainly  did  go  down 
by  My  Incarnation;  into  a deeper  one  I sank  dur- 
ing My  lifetime:  into  the  very  deepest  I lowered 
Myself  by  My  death.  But  here,  I have  sunk  be- 
neath all  those  depths:  here  I exceed  all  those  ex- 
cesses, and  continue  to  do  the  same. 

Endeavor  as  much  as  thou  canst,  struggle  as 
much  as  thou  wilt;  thou  mayst  wonder,  thou  mayst 
be  astounded,  but  never  shalt  thou  be  able  to  grasp 
or  understand  neither  the  depth,  nor  the  breadth 
of  the  abyss,  into  which  My  Heart  here  lowers 
Itself. 

The  very  Angels  are  amazed,  when,  struck  with 
awe,  they  gaze  upon  Me,  whom  they  acknowledge 
and  worship  as  their  Lord,  humbling  Myself  more 
deeply  than  they  themselves  could  possibly  do. 

Powerfully,  indeed,  are  they  thereby  enkindled 
and  stimulated  to  glorify  the  divine  Majesty,  whose 
infinite  grandeur  they  cannot  comprehend,  but 
whom  they  thus  more  clearly  perceive,  by  My  ex- 
ample, as  worthy  of  infinite  honor. 

2.  If  the  state  itself,  My  Child,  wherein  I have 
here  placed  Myself,  honors  the  divine  Majesty  so 
exceedingly,  how  much  glory  do  all  the  things 
which  I perform  for  Him,  in  this  condition,  give  to 
Him! 

Judge  not  by  the  outward  appearance:  things 
divine  are  not  to  be  estimated  in  a human  sense. 

All  My  acts,  in  this  Sacrament,  since  they  are 
the  acts  of  a Person  of  infinite  dignity,  unseen 


572 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


though  they  be,  and  displaying  no  splendor  to  strike 
the  senses  of  men,  are  of  infinite  value. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  the  least  motion  of  My 
Heart  for  the  glory  of  My  Father  glorifies  Him  in- 
comparably more  than  all  things  whatsoever  done 
by  mere  creatures. 

Call  to  mind  the  great  exploits,  the  illustrious 
actions,  and  immortal  deeds,  which  men  have 
achieved  for  the  world,  and  whereby  they  have 
spread  their  renown  over  the  earth:  behold,  all 
these,  compared  with  a single  act  of  My  Heart, 
what  are  they  except  smoke,  compared  to  a blazing 
fire? 

Nay  more,  add  together  the  virtues,  the  suffer- 
ings, the  heroic  actions,  whereby  all  the  Saints, 
from  Abel  even  to  the  last  of  the  just,  have  ren- 
dered themselves  truly  distinguished:  these  also, 
My  Child,  though  pleasing  and  honorable  to  God, 
are  infinitely  below  one  single  sacrifice,  whereby 
My  Heart  here  honors  God. 

What  more?  Great,  indeed,  and  glorious  are 
the  praises  and  thanksgivings,  which  the  Spirits 
above,  the  inhabitants  of  heaven,  offer  to  the  divine 
Majesty:  yet,  greater,  and  more  glorious  beyond 
comparison,  are  those  which  My  Heart,  by  one 
single  immolation  of  Itself  upon  the  altar,  presents 
to  Him. 

3.  Rightly,  therefore,  does  the  holy  Church  re- 
joice, for  that  she  has  for  her  Bridegroom  the  Son 
of  God,  who  honors  for  her  the  divine  Majesty,  as 
much  as  He  deserves  to  be  honored:  and  gives  Him 
thanks  such  as  are  due  to  Him. 

This  she  daily  acknowledges  with  grateful  feel- 
ing, when,  through  Me,  she  draws  nigh  to  the 


CHAPTER  IX. 


573 


Father,  and  says  to  Him:  Through  Him,  and  with 
Him,  and  in  Him  is  to  Thee,  God,  almighty  Father, 
in  the  unity  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  all  honor  and  glory. 

Formed  by  this  divine  institution,  and  united  to 
Me,  she  dares,  without  fear  of  refusal,  pray  the 
Father  and  thank  Him,  through  Me,  Christ  the 
Lord. 

And,  since  she  knows  that  only  through  Me  her 
acts  are  supernaturally  acceptable  to  God,  whatso- 
ever she  does,  whatsoever  she  offers,  she  performs 
it  all  in  union  with  Me,  for  the  praise  and  glory  of 
the  divine  Majesty,  as  well  as  for  her  own  advan- 
tage unto  life  everlasting. 

4.  Blessed  those  souls,  My  Child,  that,  moved  by 
the  spirit  of  their  holy  Mother,  the  Church,  with 
her  unite  themselves  to  My  Heart  in  the  Sacra- 
ment; and  thus  strive  to  pay  to  God  the  honor  and 
thanksgiving,  which  they  owe  to  Him,  but  which, 
of  themselves,  they  are  unable  to  render. 

Remember,  Child,  how  much  thou  owest  to  My 
heavenly  Father,  who  so  cherished  thee  that,  in  so 
marvelous  and  sweet  a manner,  He  gave  thee  His 
only-begotten  Son:  who  so  loves  thee,  that  He  im- 
parts to  thee,  in  so  great  an  abundance,  the  gifts 
of  the  Spirit  the  Comforter  sent  in  My  name. 

How  sweet  a debt  is  gratefulness,  if  thou  hast  a 
noble  heart!  And  what  can  be  so  sweet,  if  thou 
hast  the  heart  of  a son,  as  to  display  a grateful 
mind  toward  the  best  of  Fathers? 

And,  if  thou  desirest  to  be  thankful  to  God,  like 
a son  to  his  father,  honor  Him:  for  He  says:  If  I 
am  a Father,  where  is  My  honor? 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O eternal  Father! 
from  whom,  as  from  their  highest  source,  I have 


574 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK 


received  all  things;  nay,  what  infinitely  surpasses 
all,  Thy  only  Son  Himself,  with  all  His  merits  and 
ineffable  favors,  the  Holy  Spirit  likewise,  and  His 
graces  and  multiform  gifts:  what  return  shall  I 
make  to  Thee,  for  blessings  so  great,  so  numerous? 

If  there  must  be  a certain  proportion  between 
gifts  and  the  thankfulness  for  them,  behold!  I am, 
every  way,  powerless  to  repay  the  gratitude  I owe 
to  Thee,  since  there  is  no  comparison  between  Thy 
infinite  gifts  and  my  imperfect  gratefulness. 

When,  besides,  I consider  that  all  the  divine 
perfections  are  infinite,  and  that  these  infinite  per- 
fections, even  if  Thou  hadst  never  bestowed  any 
favor  upon  me,  are,  for  their  own  sake  to  be  wor- 
shiped in  a limitless  manner,  I am  overwhelmed  by 
the  weight  of  my  debt  to  which,  I acknowledge,  I 
am  of  myself  forever  unequal. 

But  behold!  Jesus,  Thy  only  and  most  beloved 
Son,  who,  for  Thy  love  and  mine,  abides  with  me 
upon  earth,  makes  good  what  I owe  to  Thee,  but 
am  unable  to  repay. 

Through  Him,  therefore,  who  knows  all  Thy 
blessings  bestowed  upon  me,  and  fully  comprehends 
Thy  perfections,  I do  here,  in  union  with  the  love 
of  His  Heart,  avow  the  obedience  of  My  depend- 
ence, and  render  to  Thee  a worship  ever  most  ac- 
ceptable in  Him,  in  whom  Thou  art  always  well- 
pleased. 

6.  With  all  my  heart  do  I rejoice,  for  that  Thou 
art  infinitely  perfect,  as  well  as  liberal  to  me;  and 
that,  in  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  Thy  well-beloved  Son, 
I possess  wherewith  I am  able  to  return  Thee  due 
honor  and  gratitude. 

Wherefore,  I offer  to  Thee  all  the  virtues  of  the 


CHAPTER  IX. 


575 


most  Sacred  Heart  of  Jesus,  Thy  Son,  and  all  the 
acts  which  He  ceases  not  to  perform,  for  the  honor 
of  Thy  Majesty,  and  the  salvation  of  the  whole 
world,  in  the  most  Blessed  Sacrament  of  His 
love. 

Whatsoever  I am  able  to  do,  is  as  nothing  in 
comparison  of  what  I owe  to  Thee:  and  this  is 
itself  a part  of  Thy  praise,  that  what  Thou  deserv- 
est,  is  above  every  power  of  mine. 

But,  look  upon  the  face  of  Jesus,  Thy  Son,  who 
is  the  image  of  Thy  Goodness  and  of  Thy  every 
perfection;  and,  for  Thy  glory,  do  Thou  receive 
all  the  fullness  of  the  Holiness  of  His  Heart. 

Deign,  I beseech  Thee,  Holy  Father,  to  accept 
the  merits,  satisfactions,  and  praises  of  Thy  only- 
begotten  Son,  as  an  atonement  for  all  the  insults 
with  which  I myself  and  others  have,  at  times,  dis- 
honored Thee. 

For  which  insults  I would  gladly,  were  I able, 
make  amends  with  my  blood  and  with  every  other 
sacrifice:  but,  since  whatsoever  I may  do,  is,  of  it- 
self, by  no  means  sufficient  for  this,  I unite  it  all 
with  the  infinite  merits  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus,  Thy 
Son,  and  thus  present  it  to  Thee. 

7.  Through  the  same  Heart  of  Thy  Beloved 
Son — through  which  I pay  Thee  a tribute  of  honor, 
and  render  Thee  thanks  for  all  the  blessings  be- 
stowed upon  me — I humbly  implore  new  graces  for 
Thy  glory. 

Above  all,  grant  me,  I entreat  Thee,  a great,  a 
generous,  a tender  love  for  Thy  Son,  the  Beloved 
of  my  soul,  the  most  sweet  Jesus,  who  stays  here 
so  lovingly  with  me. 

Grant  that,  animated  with  the  sentiments  of  His 


576 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Heart,  and  united  thereto,  I may  live  by  Him — - 
through  whom  alone  I am  able  to  come  to  Thee. 

Give  me  for  this,  I beseech  Thee,  the  fullness  of 
the  Holy  Spirit,  who  ever  animated  and  guided  the 
Heart  of  Jesus. 

Let  that  divine  Spirit  replenish  my  whole  heart, 
inflame  it  with  love  for  Jesus,  and  stimulate  it 
ever  with  hunger  and  thirst  for  His  most  delicious 
Sacrament. 


CHAPTER  X. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  BY  ITS  SELF- 
OFFERINGS IN  THE  MOST  HOLY  SACRAMENT,  AP- 
PEASES THE  DIVINE  JUSTICE,  AND  PROCURES 
FOR  US  MEASURELESS  GRACES. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  thus  says  the 
Lord:  In  every  place  there  is  sacrificed  and  offered 
to  My  Name  a clean  Oblation;  for  great  is  My 
Name  among  the  nations. 

This,  My  Child,  is  that  Victim  of  salvation, 
which,  once  offered  on  the  Holy  Mountain  for  the 
Redemption  of  all,  is  offered  daily  throughout  the 
world  to  apply  My  merits  to  each  one  in  particular 
unto  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  which  are  daily  com- 
mitted. 

For,  knowing  that  the  nature  of  them  that  were 
to  believe  in  Me,  would  be  such,  that  they  should 
all  offend  in  many  things;  moved  by  the  love  of 
My  Heart,  I instituted  a Sacrifice,  not  only  of  su- 
preme worship  and  thanksgiving,  but  also  of  atone- 


CHAPTER  X. 


577 


ment  and  impetration:  by  the  offering  of  which, 
God,  being  appeased,  after  granting  the  grace  and 
gift  of  repentance,  would  also  pardon  crimes  and 
offenses,  and  liberally  bestow  His  favors. 

The  same  Sacrifice,  that  I formerly  offered  upon 
the  cross,  I now  offer  upon  the  altar, — not  indeed 
in  a bloody  manner  as  then,  but  with  the  same 
love  of  Heart. 

As  often,  therefore,  as  this  ever-enduring  Sacri- 
fice is  offered,  as  often  as  the  remembrance  of  this 
Victim  is  celebrated,  the  work  of  man’s  Redemp- 
tion is  renewed. 

Upon  this  Oblation  the  Almighty  Father  ever 
deigns  to  look  with  a propitious  and  favorable  eye, 
ana  He  holds  the  same  more  acceptable  than  the 
holy  sacrifice,  the  spotless  offering  which  the  High> 
priest,  Melchisedech,  presented  to  Him. 

Whence  also  the  Church,  full  of  confidence, 
prays  God  the  Father,  that  hereby  the  faithful  may 
be  freed  from  all  evils,  past,  present,  and  future; 
and  that,  assisted  by  the  help  of  the  divine  mercy, 
they  may  be  free  from  sin,  and  secure  from  all  dis- 
turbance. 

For,  what  can  the  eternal  Father  refuse,  when 
He  beholds  Me,  His  only  Son,  through  zeal  for  His 
honor  and  love  for  men,  immolated  upon  the  altar 
and  lying  there  the  victim  of  His  glory;  whilst 
My  Heart  and  My  very  Blood  cry  out  and  inter- 
cede for  My  brethren? 

2.  Most  assuredly  this  Oblation,  so  pre-eminently 
clean, — presented  by  the  ministry  of  priests,  through 
Myself,  with  the  infinite  affection  of  My  Heart, 
to  the  Heavenly  Father, — is  ever  pleasing  to  Him, 
is  ever  regarded  for  its  dignity. 


578 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Thus,  indeed,  many  others  are  made  priests,  be- 
cause death  suffered  them  not  to  remain,  and  be- 
cause this  Victim  is  offered  in  every  place:  but  I, 
since  I endure  forever,  possess  an  everlasting  priest- 
hood. Whence  also  I can  save,  forever,  those  that, 
through  Me,  draw  nigh  to  God. 

The  earth,  therefore,  is,  as  it  were,  uninterrupt- 
edly crimsoned  by  the  offering  of  this  most  sacred 
Victim;  and  its  fragrance,  blending  with  the  virtues 
and  merits  of  My  Heart,  is  unceasingly  ascending 
to  the  Father  for  an  odor  of  sweetness. 

If  the  many  sins  of  men  do  much  offend  the  di- 
vine Majesty,  and  provoke  His  justice,  this  holy 
Sacrifice  does  incomparably  more  to  honor  and  ap- 
pease the  same;  since  His  only-begotten  Son  pleases 
Him  infinitely  more  than  all  sinners  displease 
Him. 

What  land  on  earth  is  not,  in  some  manner,  dyed 
with  the  blood  of  My  Heart,  or  what  spot  is  ex- 
cluded from  Its  prayers  and  protection  ? What 
region,  then,  in  this  world,  can  God  smite,  without 
striking  a place  defended  by  the  Heart  of  His 
Son? 

Behold!  sinners  have  sinned,  and  they  were  not, 
according  to  their  deserts,  cast  into  the  pool  of  fire 
everlasting:  yea,  they  are  even  suffered  to  live,  not 
indeed  that  they  may  continue  to  sin,  but  that  they 
may  save  themselves. 

For  I place  Myself  between  God  My  Father  and 
the  sinners;  for  them  I offer  Myself,  and  make  in- 
tercession: Look  Thou,  holy  and  righteous  Father, 
behold  My  hands,  and  My  Side:  see  how  much 
they  have  cost  Thy  Son!  by  the  love,  wherewith 
Thou  lovest  Me,  spare,  Father,  spare  Thy  people. 


CHAPTER  X. 


579 


3.  My  Child,  ought  not  the  sinner  to  yield  to  so 
great  a goodness,  whereby  I keep  hell  shut,  lest  he 
be  swallowed  up  therein;  whereby  I restrain  the 
demons,  lest  they  carry  him  off;  whereby  I stay 
the  arm  of  the  Almighty,  lest  the  bolts  of  divine 
mstice  destroy  him  ? 

Thou  shouldst  indeed  wonder,  didst  thou  see  all 
the  secret  means  which  My  Heart  here  employs  to 
save  souls;  which,  unless  I turned  away  the  divine 
wrath  from  them,  should  soon  be  deservedly  de- 
voured. 

If  now,  as  of  old,  sudden  and  immutable  punish- 
ment is  not  inflicted  upon  the  wicked;  they  should 
remember  that  it  is  owing  to  the  Sacrifice  of  My 
Heart,  whereby  the  whole  world  is  preserved. 

Lo,  Child,  how  My  Heart  loves,  everywhere 
mindful  of  men,  even  of  the  most  wretched;  every- 
where promoting  the  salvation  of  souls. 

4.  With  what  sentiments,  then,  is  it  befitting 
that  thou  shouldst  approach  this  mystery,  whence 
thou  mayst  obtain  remedies  so  great!  Whence  thou 
mayst  secure  graces  and  favors  of  every  kind:  for 
it  is  of  infinite  value. 

But,  although  this  Sacrifice  is  of  infinite  value, 
the  fruit  thereof  is,  however,  applied  to  man  in  a 
limited  manner,  according  to  the  liveliness  of  the 
faith  and  devotedness,  the  disposition  of  the  soul  of 
him  that  assists  thereat,  or  for  whom  it  is  offered 
up;  as  the  Church,  taught  by  the  Holy  Spirit,  in- 
sinuates, when,  during  the  Sacrifice,  she  prays  God 
to  remember  His  servants,  and  all  the  bystanders, 
whose  faith  is  acknowledged,  and  whose  devoted- 
ness is  known  by  Him. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  do  thou  celebrate  or  hear 


S8° 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Mass  with  a lively  faith,  a true  devotion,  a holy 
disposition;  that  thou  mayst  deserve  to  obtain  the 
greatest  fruit  of  the  Sacrifice,  and  secure  all  the 
graces  for  which  thou  prayest. 

For  the  divine  Clemency  grants,  without  doubt, 
to  them  that  are  rightly  disposed,  whatsoever  favors 
they  ask  during  the  Mass;  nay,  fiequently  bestowTs 
liberally  blessings  for  which  they  did  not  petition. 

Remember  this,  Child,  that  picusly  to  hear  Mass 
is  a most  wholesome  means  to  keep  thyself  frcm 
dangers,  to  preserve  thyself  ficm  an  unforeseen 
death,  and  to  follow  the  path  cf  righteousness. 

If  thou  wilt  lay  up  merits,  so  often  as  it  is  per- 
mitted, be  thou  present  at  the  Sacrifice  of  the  Mass, 
for,  by  the  devout  hearing  of  cne  Mass,  thcu  mer- 
itest  far  more  than  if,  through  devotion,  thcu  didst 
macerate  thyself  for  a long  time  by  fasts  and  aus- 
terities, or  didst  undertake  a distant  pilgrimage. 

Lastly,  if  thou  desirest  to  make  thyself  agreeable 
to  My  Heart,  assist  at  Mass  as  frequently  and  as 
devoutly  as  possible;  for  this  Sacrifice  glorifies  the 
most  Holy  Trinity,  rejoices  the  Angels  and  Saints, 
enriches  the  just  with  grace,  helps  sinners  fcr  their 
conversion,  relieves  the  souls  detained  in  purgatcry,  in 
fine,  cheers  and  comforts  the  wdiole  Church  on  earth. 

5.  The  voice  0 / the  Disciple. — O most  sweet  Jesus! 
how  great  the  mercy!  how  disinterested  the  love! 
how^  resistless  the  kindness!  how  astounding  the 
goodness  of  Thy  Heart  ! 

Even  for  them  who,  as  much  as  in  them  lies,  sad- 
den Thy  Heart,  Thou  ceasest  not  to  immolate  Thy- 
self; that  Thou  mayst  stay  the  weight  of  the  divine 
anger,  whilst  they  betake  themselves  in  safety  be- 
neath the  protection  of  Thy  Heart. 


CHAPTER  X. 


581 

And  I,  for  I will  confess  it,  although  so  plenti- 
fully blessed  with  the  gifts  of  Thy  Heart,  I,  most 
ungrateful  of  men,  have  grieved  Thy  Heart. 

To  the  great  mercy,  to  the  infinite  goodness  of 
Thy  Heart  it  is  owing,  that  I am  not  destroyed,  that 
I still  remain  unharmed. 

6.  O Heart  of  Jesus!  Heart  full  of  sweetness 
and  delight!  most  loving  Heart,  every  way  poured 
out  through  an  excess  of  love!  how  can  I possess 
a heart  worthy  of  the  name  of  a human  heart,  if  I 
do  not  love  Thee  in  return? 

Who,  O Lord,  who  can  resist  Thy  love,  when  he 
considers,  how,  in  the  most  Holy  Eucharist,  Thou 
shelterest  us  in  Thy  Heart,  and  offerest  Thyself  to 
Thy  Father  for  us! 

O my  Jesus!  what  would  happen  shouldst  Thou 
cast  away  the  sinner  from  the  protection  of  Thy 
Heart!  how  dreadfully  would  the  thunderbolts  of 
divine  iustice  hurl  him  into  the  lowest  depths  of 
hell! 

Far,  O Lord,  far  be  it  from  me,  that,  by  provok- 
ing Thy  Heart,  through  ingratitude,  through  sin, 
I should  expose  myself  to  so  great  a danger! 

7.  Grant,  O my  Saviour!  that  I may  be  more 
eager  to  please  Thee,  who  art  so  solicitous  for  me; 
that  I may  love  Thee  more  fervently;  that,  through 
gratitude  and  love,  I may  visit  Thee  more  fre- 
quently, and  assist  oftener  or  more  devoutly  at  Thy 
holy  Sacrifice. 

O how  little  do  I love  Thee,  if  I do  not  daily 
come  hither,  to  be  present  at  Mass;  here  to  medi- 
tate, to  converse  with  Thee,  to  beg  much  of  Thee. 

How  considerable  a time  of  the  day  do  I give 
to  worldly  occupations!  how  much  to  rest  and  to 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


582 

recreate  myself!  and  cannot  I spend  here  with  Thee 
half  an  hour  for  the  affair  of  my  everlasting  salva- 
tion, and  for  the  divine  glory;  the  more  as  I should 
take  hence  Thy  grace  and  blessing,  whereby  my 
affairs  themselves,  and  all  the  rest,  would  be  made 
holy  and  prosperous? 

Yea,  O Lord,  daily  will  I be  here  with  Thee. 
And,  if  I am  necessarily  hindered  from  being  bodily 
present,  even  then  I will  be  here  in  spirit  with 
Thee. 


CHAPTER  XI. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE  SACRA- 
MENT OF  HIS  LOVE,  IS  OUR  GREATEST  CONSOLA- 
TION ON  EARTH. 

i.  The  voice  0}  Jesus. — My  Child,  behold  My 
Tabernacle  with  men!  behold  here  I dwell  with 
them.  Here  I Myself  console  them  that  come,  and 
I wipe  away  every  tear  from  their  eyes. 

And,  as  there  is  no  place  on  earth,  where  afflic- 
tion does  not  sometimes  shed  tears,  My  Heart  mul- 
tiplies Its  miracles,  that  It  may  everywhere  multi- 
ply consolations. 

Hence,  thou  mayst  learn,  My  Child,  that  the 
mercy  of  My  Heart  is  greater  than  man’s  misery 
can  be. 

If  any  remedy,  if  any  comfort  is  required  in  mis- 
fortune, here  it  is  found  in  My  Heart;  here  it  is 
drawn  with  gladness  from  the  same. 

Behold!  here  I make  all  things  new:  things 


CHAPTER  XI. 


583 


heavy  I change  into  light,  things  tasteless  I make 
to  be  savory : bitterness  1 turn  into  sweetness, 
mourning  into  joy  of  heart. 

Nay,  more,  this  vale  of  tears  I transform  into  a 
Paradise;  earth  into  heaven  before  its  time.  For 
here  is  the  plentifulness  of  all  the  good  things  of 
heaven,  here  is  the  fountain  of  peace  and  gladness; 
here  are  the  Angels,  here  am  I Myself,  here  is  bliss 
ever-enduring. 

2.  These  are  the  wonders  of  love,  Child,  which 
My  Heart  works  for  thee,  that  thou  mayst  not  be 
cast  down  amid  the  tribulations  of  life;  but  that, 
attracted  by  the  goodness  of  My  Heart,  thou  mayst 
come  to  this  overflowing  fountain  of  all  conso- 
lation. 

If  thou  hast  once  duly  tasted  Its  sweetness,  thou 
wilt  soon  forget  every  affliction  of  the  past,  or  wilt 
even  deem  it  all  joy. 

When,  here  before  the  Tabernacle,  thou  pourest 
forth  thy  heart;  above  all,  when,  after  holy  Com- 
munion, thou  speakest  to  Me  heart  to  Heart,  and 
resignest  thyself  wholly  to  Me;  then  wilt  thou  per- 
ceive that  affliction  yields  to  consolation,  fear  to 
confidence,  lukewarmness  to  fervor  of  heart. 

If,  overlooking  Me,  thou  runnest  elsewhere  to 
find  some  one  to  relieve  and  help  thee  in  thy  dejec- 
tion, thou  shalt  often  be  able  to  say:  I sought  some 
one  to  comfort  me,  but  I found  none. 

But  hither  thou  shalt  never  come  in  vain:  hence 
thou  shalt  never  depart  without  relief. 

Hither,  then,  do  thou  ever  fly,  that  thou  mayst 
receive  a remedy  for  thy  troubles;  and  turn  thy 
si:fferings  into  consoling  merits. 

3.  If  misfortune,  if  loss  of  possessions  or  even 


584 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


if  want  fill  thy  heart  with  groanings  and  thy  eyes 
with  tears,  so  as  to  render  thy  soul  weary  of  life; 
here,  My  Child,  thou  shalt  find  what  no  mortal  can 
give  thee;  here  thou  shalt  obtain  a soothing  of  thy 
grief.  If  thou  lookest  upon  My  example,  thy 
heart  shall  be  comforted:  My  promise  of  perma- 
nent possessions,  which  thou . shalt  receive  by  shar- 
ing My  inheritance,  after  having  passed  a few  days 
here  below,  will  cheer  up  thy  spirit : lastly,  the, 
secret  grace  of  My  Heart  will  not  rarely  turn  the 
tears  of  grief  into  tears  of  consolation. 

If  the  world  hates  thee,  if  men  slight,  oppose,  or 
oppress  thee;  here,  O My  Child,  here  in  this  mys- 
tery of  love  thou  shalt  be  abundantly  comforted: 
when  thou  possessest  Me,  yea,  when  thou  pressest 
Me  to  thy  heart,  Me  thy  Saviour,  thy  faithful 
Friend,  thy  best  and  dearest  Father,  thou  wilt  be 
contented  enough  to  be  hidden,  to  be  humbled  with 
Me,  that  thou  mayst  be  the  more  alike  and  pleas- 
ing to  My  Heart,  in  order  to  be  forever  exalted  by 
Me  among  My  elect. 

And,  if  thou  art  afflicted  or  tormented  with  pains 
of  the  body  and  anguish  of  soul;  behold,  Child, 
behold  here  is  thy  solace,  which  alone  can  reach 
tL?  innermost  recesses  of  the  ailing  heart,  and 
which  none  can  hinder,  except  thyself — by  heark- 
ening rather  to  thy  own  thoughts  than  to  My 
whisperings. 

Thou  shalt  also  experience  that  which  has  been 
felt  by  thousands  of  faithful  souls  that  came  hither 
in  sorrow,  and  with  an  aching  heart;  and  soon,  re- 
freshed by  the  sweetness  of  the  love  of  My  Heart, 
went  away  their  hearts  dilated  with  bliss. 

If  annoyed  by  temptations,  if  worn  down  by 


CHAPTER  XI. 


S8S 

desolateness;  hasten  hither,  My  Child.  Behold! 
My  Heart  invites  and  awaits  thee  thus  tempted  and 
rendered  desolate.  It  will  receive  thee  with  glad- 
ness; It  will  strengthen  thee  by  Its  own  fortitude; 
It  will  fill  thee  with  the  sweetness  of  Its  unction. 

Shouldst  thou  even  commit  a fault,  arise  quickly, 
and  run  thou  hither.  Here  thou  shalt  easily  repair 
all:  here  thou  shalt  recover  peace  and  joy  of 
heart. 

O if  thou  knewest,  My  Child,  with  how  great  a 
longing  to  console  every  one,  My  Heart  watches 
here  at  all  times, — consoling  Itself  whenever  It 
comforts  some  one  in  his  affliction; — thou  wouldst 
then  understand  whence  it  is  that  none,  in  what 
trouble  soever  he  may  find  himself,  can  come 
hither  well-disposed  to  My  Heart,  without  receiving 
consolation. 

4.  For,  in  the  sacred  Tabernacle,  thou  now  pos- 
sessest  Me,  the  same  Saviour,  that,  whilom,  when 
I lived  a mortal  life,  comforted  all:  the  very  same 
Heart,  that,  whilst  placed  in  the  manger,  gave 
peace  to  the  Shepherds,  and  filled  the  Magi  with 
heavenly  delight:  that,  in  childhood  rejoiced  them 
that  came  to  Me:  that,  throughout  life  was  the 
refuge  and  solace  of  all. 

Thou  knowest,  My  Child,  how  all  the  sick  and 
the  weak,  the  blind  and  the  lame,  the  deaf  and  the 
dumb,  the  wretched  and  the  disconsolate  were  wont 
to  appeal  to  My  Heart,  and  implore  Its  compassion 
and  help. 

Was  ever  one  of  these  disappointed  in  his  hope, 
by  what  suffering  soever  he  was  bowed  down;  at 
what  time  soever  of  the  day  or  of  the  night  he 
came  to  me? 


586 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Did  not  every  one,  in  whatsoever  hour  he  had 
recourse  to  the  goodness  of  My  Heart,  go  away 
more  consoled  than  he  had  dared  to  hope? 

And,  My  Child,  all  these  wonders,  all  these  con- 
solations, My  Heart  does  here  ceaselessly  renew; 
but  in  a manner  all  the  more  perfect  and  useful, 
the  more  spiritual  it  is,  and  the  better  adapted  to 
everlasting  life. 

There,  indeed,  It  healed  the  diseases  of  the  body: 
here  It  cures  the  ailments,  the  infirmities  and  mise- 
ries of  the  soul. 

There  It  freed  them  that  were  possessed  by  the 
devil,  or  tormented  by  him;  here  It  does  more, 
since  It  guards  the  faithful  against  the  demon. 

There  It  cleansed  those  afflicted  with  leprosy: 
here  It  purifies  souls,  and  makes  them  clean  and 
whiter  than  snow. 

There,  by  a miracle,  It  sated  thousands  of  men 
with  a natural  food:  here  It  nourishes  all  the  faith- 
ful with  the  Bread  of  Angels. 

There  It  restored  the  dead  to  life:  here,  what  is 
better  beyond  comparison,  It  preserves  souls  from 
death. 

And  as  then  My  Heart,  full  of  compassion,  mercy, 
goodness,  was  accessible  to  all;  so  now  It  is  open 
to  every  one,  even  to  the  most  wretched  and  af- 
flicted. 

Believe  not,  My  Child,  even  should  a spirit  sug- 
gest the  thought,  that  My  Heart  does  now  possess 
a different  feeling,  either  in  respect  to  God,  or  with 
regard  to  men. 

Take  heed  lest  thou  deem  My  Heart,  that  abides 
here  to  comfort  thee,  different  from  My  Heart,  that 
erewhile,  in  Its  mortal  life,  so  marvelously,  so 


CHAPTER  XI. 


58? 

sweetly  relieved  men,  and  filled  them  with  every 
consolation.  For  every  spirit,  that  thus  severs  01 
divides  My  Heart,  is  not  of  God. 

6.  Dilate  thy  heart,  My  Child,  and  understand, 
as  much  as  thou  art  able,  what  comfort,  here,  as 
from  a perennial  fountain,  flows  down  upon  thee 
from  My  Heart. 

Behold  all  the  consolations,  admirable  and  de~ 
jightful, — which,  during  Its  mortal  life,  It  imparted 
to  many  and  various  persons, — It  bestows  in  Its 
Sacramental  life  upon  thee  alone. 

How  much  happier,  then,  art  thou,  than  they 
that  were  living  at  the  time  of  My  mortal  life! 
Neither  did  these,  like  thyself,  uninterruptedly  en- 
joy My  presence:  neither  were  they  in  the  same 
manner,  as  thou,  possessed  of  Me:  nor,  lastly,  did 
they  receive  or  enjoy  Me,  as  thyself,  O Child  of 
My  Heart. 

Lo,  then,  to  what  a degree  My  Heart  favors  thee. 
In  every  necessity,  therefore  in  every  difficulty 
whether  interior  or  exterior,  do  thou  fly  hither. 
Here,  if  thou  art  guilty,  thou  shalt  obtain  pardon 
if  sick,  healing;  if  downhearted,  courage  and  for- 
titude; if  afflicted,  relief  and  help;  if  in  danger, 
protection  and  safety;  a remedy  for  all  miseries; 
always  a true  and  sanctifying  consolation. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O Jesus,  my  love! 
how  delightful  are  the  designs  of  Thy  Heart, 
whereby,  to  soothe  the  bitterness  of  this  life,  Thou 
journeyest,  in  some  manner,  with  me  in  my  ban- 
ishment, nay,  changest  my  very  exile  into  a Para- 
dise ! 

Shall  I speak,  O Lord,  or  be  silent  about  what  I 
conceive  of  the  exceeding  love  of  Thy  Heart,  for  us 


588 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


men?  Yet,  for  the  glory  of  Thy  Heart,  I will  not 
be  silent:  Thus,  O Jesus  I thus  Thou  didst  nowhere 
deal  with  the  Angels  themselves;  thus  Thou  never 
gavest  Thyself  to  them  to  enjoy! 

O my  Jesus!  infinite  sweetness,  how  immensely 
hast  Thou  loved  me!  how  givest  Thou  Thyself  to 
me!  how  dost  Thou  wholly  become  my  consolation! 

Whence,  O most  loving  God,  so  great  a goodness 
toward  an  ungrateful  Child,  not  worthy  of  the  name 
of  Child! 

Thus,  O ineffable  love!  Thou  displavest  the 
greatness  of  Thy  goodness,  since  Thou  regardest  not 
Thy  Majesty  and  my  abjectness,  but  kindly  followT- 
est  the  goodness  of  Thy  Heart,  moved  by  my  in- 
digence and  Thy  charity. 

8.  O Lord  Jesus,  Father  of  mercies,  and  God  of 
all  consolation!  with  how  great  a gladness  do  I 
come  to  Thee,  full  of  courage  and  confidence  in 
Thy  pure  goodness! 

Many,  indeed,  and  great  are  my  miseries:  yet, 
confidingly  and  cheerfully  do  I draw  nigh,  attracted 
by  the  sweetness  of  Thy  love. 

For  now  I know  that,  although  Thou  art  incap- 
able of  pain,  Thou  art  not  without  feeling;  that, 
although  my  sorrows  do  not  cause  Thee  any  suf- 
fering, Thou  art  not  indifferent  to  them. 

Now-  I understand,  that  Thou  art  able  and  wall- 
ing to  feel  compassion  for  my  infirmities;  and  that 
my  great  and  numerous  miseries  are  the  objects  of 
Thy  infinite  mercy. 

If,  hitherto,  I languished  miserable  and  disconso- 
late, I myself  was  in  fault;  because  I neglected  to 
come  to  the  ever-open  source  of  mercy  and  comfort. 

But,  henceforth,  w-henever  I shall  be  afflicted,  I 


CHAPTER  XII. 


589 


will  arise  and  go  to  this  fountain  of  all  blessings, 
where  I shall  find  more  remedies  than  I need; 
where  I shall  have  greater  consolations  than  I can 
contain  in  my  heart. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  ITS  SACRA- 
MENTAL, AS  FORMERLY  IN  ITS  MORTAL  LIFE, 

WHILST  INSTRUCTING  MEN,  DOES  NOT  CEASE  TO 

TEACH  THAT  HE  IS  MEEK  AND  HUMBLE. 

1.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Come  ye,  sons  of  men,  and 
give  ear. 

Behold  how  I am  here  with  you  all  days!  here 
at  all  times,  here  learn  ye  of  Me,  how  meek  and 
humble  of  Heart  I am. 

Marvelous,  indeed,  did  the  humility  of  My  Heart 
and  Its  charity  appear  during  Its  mortal  life:  yet, 
here,  in  Mv  Sacramental  life,  far  more  admirable  is 
the  abyss  of  Its  humility,  the  excess  of  Its  charity. 

This  whole  mystery  is  humility,  all  charity. 
Here  not  only  is  My  Divinity,  but  even  My  Hu- 
manity, hidden  from  the  sight  of  mortals.  Here  is 
charity,  not  unto  death  only,  not  unto  the  end  of 
the  world,  but  unto  every  excess  of  love. 

What  eye  has  seen,  what  ear  has  heard,  what 
heart  has  conceived,  to  how  great  a degree  the  hu- 
mility of  My  Heart  does  here  descend,  to  what  ex- 
tent love  is  exceeding? 

2.  If  thou  art  astonished,  My  Child,  if  thou  art 
enraptured  at  the  excess  of  love,  whereby,  whilom, 
during  My  mortal  life,  I showed  Myself  meek  and 


59° 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


humble  of  Heart:  what  must  be  thy  sentiments, 
when  thou  considerest  attentively,  how  meek  and 
humble  of  Heart  I am  now,  in  My  Sacramental 
life! 

So  long  as  I was  seen  on  earth  and  dwelled  with 
inen;  at  no  time,  in  no  place,  did  I cease  to  exhibit 
to  all  and  every  one  the  true  and  efficacious  humil- 
ity and  meekness  of  My  Heart. 

Recall  to  mind,  My  Child,  with  how  great  a hu- 
mility and  charity  of  Heart  I was  wont  to  treat  My 
Disciples;  the  ignorant  and  unmannerly  people; 
the  unhappy  and  the  distressed;  the  wretched  sin- 
ners; finally,  My  enemies  themselves. 

What  was  ever  able  to  obstruct  or  check  the 
fountain  of  this  humble  and  exhaustless  charity? 
Neither  the  faults,  nor  the  ignorance,  nor  the  im- 
portunateness, nor  the  obstinacy,  nor  the  abject- 
ness, nor  the  perverseness  itself  of  men.  Naught 
of  all  this  could  ever  make  Me  show  Myself,  even 
toward  one  mortal,  otherwise  than  meek  and  hum- 
ble of  Heart. 

Witness  all  the  people  so  hard  to  please;  wit- 
ness the  heathen,  who,  attracted  by  the  sweetness 
of  My  Heart,  came  running  toward  Me,  saying: 
“We  wish  to  see  Jesus:”  witness  the  woman  of 
Canaan,  and  all  the  disconsolate:  witness  the  Mag- 
dalen, and  every  sin-laden  soul  that  had  recourse 
to  Me:  witness  the  Pharisees,  men  that  persecuted 
Me  unto  death.  All  these  bear  witness  to  the  deeds  of 
My  meek  and  humble  Heart,  during  My  mortal  life. 

3.  But  behold!  Child,  in  My  Sacramental  life,  I 
continue  such  deeds:  yea,  amid  these,  I show 
Myself  meek  and  humble  of  Heart  in  a more  sweet 
and  marvelous  manner. 


CHAPTER  XII. 


59* 


For  consider,  how  men  here  deport  themselves 
toward  Me,  not  only  with  rudeness  and  irreverence, 
but  even  with  contempt;  and  see  how  I endure  this 
behavior. 

Consider,  how  many  souls,  cherished  by  Me  in  a 
special  manner,  when  presented  with  a small  share 
of  My  cross, — a most  precious  pledge  of  My  love, — 
bring  and  return  to  Me  here,  instead  of  praise 
and  love,  complaints  and  repinings:  and  observe, 
with  how  great  a goodness  of  Heart,  I do  not  only 
endure  them,  but  encourage  and  stimulate  them  to 
better  sentiments. 

Consider,  how  many  ungrateful  souls,  laden  with 
My  favors,  depart  hence,  and,  whilst  they  enjoy 
My  benefactions,  forget  and  slight  Me,  their  Bene- 
factor: how  many  others,  who,  after  having  abused 
the  graces  I have  already  so  often  bestowed  upon 
them,  present  themselves  without  shame  before  Me, 
and  clamor  for  new  favors:  and  see,  with  how 
great  a meekness  I bear  with  them,  with  what  gen- 
erosity I suffer  themf  with  how  gentle,  and,  at  the 
same  time,  how  firm  a charity,  I excite  and  help 
them  to  faithfulness  and  fervor. 

Consider,  how  the  wicked  make  use  of  My  very 
gifts  and  favors  to  oppose,  to  offend  Me,  to  wound 
My  very  Heart:  and  watch,  with  what  disposition 
of  Heart  I do  not  return  them  evil  for  evil,  but 
overcome  evil  with  good. 

Consider,  in  fine,  how  often  the  enemies,  the  per- 
secutors of  My  Heart,  come  hither  to  insult  Me: 
and  with  how  divine  a charity  of  My  humble 
Heart,  I receive  even  them  into  My  presence,  and 
offer  them  mercy,  and  pardon,  and  peace. 

Thus,  My  Child,  at  every  hour,  at  every  moment 


592 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


of  the  day,  and  of  the  night,  in  season  and  out  of 
season,  the  good  and  the  wicked,  the  grateful  and 
the  thankless,  friends  and  enemies,  all  come  and  go, 
and  each  one  behaves  toward  Me  according  to  his 
disposition:  but,  see,  by  the  light  of  faith,  how  I deal 
with  all  and  every  one;  with  how  lowly,  unwearied, 
exhaustless  a benignity  and  sweetness  of  charity! 

4.  These  wonders  of  the  love  of  My  Heart,  thou 
canst  not  understand,  My  Child,  unless  thou  look- 
est  at  them  with  a lively  faith,  and  meditatest 
thereon  with  a devoted  heart. 

For  the  depth  of  the  humility,  which  My  Heart 
does  here  practice,  must  be  gazed  upon  with  the 
light  from  above,  must  be  entered  into  by  pious 
meditation,  must  be  learnt  in  silence  by  prayer. 

And  the  sweetness  of  the  charity,  which  My 
Heart  here  displays,  must  be  sought  in  like  mail' 
ner,  must  be  relished  by  making  use  thereof,  must 
be  tested  by  experience. 

Look,  My  Child,  and  see  in  what  manner  thou 
hast  hitherto  done  all  this:  how  thou  hast  until  now 
profited  by  this  continued  example  of  My  Heart. 

Cheer  up,  and  renew  thy  courage,  learn  by  deed 
and  in  truth,  what  I cease  not  to  teach  here,  that  I 
am  meek  and  humble  of  Heart. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — How  good,  O 
Jesus!  how  good  Thou  art!  who,  to  teach  all  gen- 
erations the  more  gently  and  the  more  efficaciously 
Thy  Spirit,  abidest  so  humble,  so  meek,  in  this 
most  sweet  mystery'. 

Here  truly  and  supremely  humble  and  meek  of 
Heart,  Thou  alone  art  the  teacher  of  humility 
and  charity,  doing  and  teaching  from  generation  to 
generation. 


CHAPTER  XII. 


593 


Yea,  all  things  that  surround  Thee,  cease  not  to 
proclaim,  that  Thou  art  meek  and  humble  of  Heart. 

The  deep  and  tranquil  solitude  wherein  Thou  art 
hidden,  proclaims  it:  the  solemn  silence,  in  which 
the  prostrate  and  enraptured  Angels  adore  Thee, 
proclaims  it:  the  tender  devotedness  of  the  pious 
faithful  proclaims  how  meek  and  humble  of  Heart 
Thou  art,  O Lord. 

O Jesus!  who  can  still  be  proud?  who  can  still 
be  hardhearted?  Can  there  be  any  one  that  does 
not  rejoice  to  humble  himself?  Can  there  be  any 
one  that  does  not  burn  with  love  ? 

Alas,  O Lord!  what  faith,  what  hope,  what 
love  have  they,  that  do  not  yield  to  Thee  here? 
O souls  full  of  pride  and  bitterness!  in  the  midst 
of  you  there  stands  One  whom  ye  know  not,  whom 
ye  heed  not. 

6.  Attend  thou,  my  soul,  and  learn,  who  thy  be- 
loved is,  how  sweet,  how  wholly  desirable,  how 
wholly  worthy  of  love. 

Enter  into  the  place  of  the  marvelous  Taber- 
nacle, even  into  the  abode  of  thy  divine  Saviour: 
and  contemplate  the  God  of  Majesty,  the  Maker 
of  heaven  and  earth,  the  Joy  of  the  Saints  and 
Angels,  thus  humbled  for  love  of  thee, — thus  made 
a captive  by  love  for  thee! 

Here  learn  to  humble  thyself  through  love: 
here  learn  to  cherish  in  purity  thy  Bridegroom, 
who  loves  with  so  wonderful  a purity. 

Hearken  thou,  to  wThat  so  great  and  so  admirable 
an  example  of  His,  speaks  within  thee  to  thy 
heart;  be  thou  attentive  to  Him  who  teaches  thee 
so  gently  by  His  own  example,  and  confirms  so 
powerfully  His  teaching  by  unceasing  miracles. 


594 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


7.  O prodigy  of  humility,  Jesus,  Son  of  the 
living  God!  O miracle  of  love!  I love  Thee,  I 
cherish  Thee,  with  my  whole  heart;  O Thou  my 
meek  and  humble  Beloved,  most  sweet  and  most 
pure  Bridegroom  of  my  soul! 

Thee  alone  I desire  to  love,  to  cherish;  farewell 
to  all  beside:  Thy  love  alone  I desire:  for  the  sole 
love  of  Thee,  I long  to  live  and  die  amidst  sacri- 
fices, the  practices  and  proofs  of  love. 

For,  the  example  of  Thy  Heart  has  taught  me 
these  things:  the  unction  of  Thy  love  has  rendered 
them  pleasant  to  me. 

O Jesus,  of  all  the  most  bountiful!  preserve  Thou 
this  disposition  of  my  heart:  and  kindly  grant 
that,  by  approaching  Thee  here  frequently,  I may 
ever  learn  better  to  love  Thee  purely,  and,  for  love 
of  Thee,  to  show  myself  toward  all  meek  and  hum- 
ble of  heart. 


CHAPTER  XIII. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  WILLED  THAT 
THE  MOST  HOLY  EUCHARIST  SHOULD  BE  AN  EN- 
DURING REMEMBRANCE  OF  HIS  PASSION,  AND  AN 
EVERLASTING  MEMORIAL  OF  HIS  LOVE  DIS- 
PLAYED THEREIN. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — As  often  as  ye  shall  eat 
this  Bread,  and  drink  the  chalice;  ye  shall  pro- 
claim the  death  of  the  Lord,  until  He  come. 

This  I enjoin,  My  Child,  to  remind  all  men  of 
that  excess  of  the  love  of  My  Heart,  whereby  I 
loved  them,  in  some  manner,  more  than  Myself; 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


595 


since  I suffered  death  in  order  that  they  might 
have  life. 

1 glory  in  that  death,  whereby,  whilst  the  love 
of  My  Heart  triumphed,  the  Eternal  Father  was 
appeased  and  exceedingly  honored;  whereby  men 
were  set  free  and  saved;  whence  arose  for  Me  the 
glory  of  the  Resurrection,  and  Ascension,  and  of 
My  everlasting  reign  over  all  things. 

And,  therefore,  I willed  that  there  should  be, 
always  and  everywhere,  a remembrance  of  My 
Passion;  and  that  they  who  reaped  the  fruits 
thereof,  whether  in  heaven  or  on  earth,  should 
ever  thankfully  remember  so  great  a condescen- 
sion. 

2 And,  assuredly,  in  their  heavenly  bliss,  the 
Elect  are  ever  mindful  of  My  Passion,  knowing 
that  to  the  same  they  owe  their  salvation  and  glory: 
and  they  worship  forever  the  Lamb  of  God,  as  it 
were  slain,  having  five  wounds,  more  splendid  and 
dazzling  than  the  sun. 

On  earth,  the  Church, — acknowledging  that  she 
was  brought  forth  by  My  Heart  when  It  expired 
upon  the  holy  Mountain,  and  that,  from  that  same 
fountain,  all  good  things  flow  down  upon  her, — does 
not  cease  to  commemorate  with  every  feeling  of 
gratitude  My  death,  all  days,  until  I come  to  take 
her  up  with  Me  into  glory.  For  the  Sacrifice 
which  she  offers  daily,  has  Me  present  as  the  Vic- 
tim, and,  by  the  separate  Consecration  of  the  Body 
and  Blood,  exhibits  Me  as  it  were  dead. 

Besides,  in  every  soul  that  partakes  of  the  most 
Blessed  Sacrament,  there  is  made  some  representa- 
tion and  commemoration  of  My  death.  For,  as 
upon  the  bed  of  the  Cross,  through  the  Passion,  I 


596 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


lost  My  mortal  life,  so,  through  Communion,  I 
lose  My  Sacramental  life  in  the  heart  of  the 
faithful. 

Nay  more.  My  Child,  the  state  itself  wherein  I 
here  continue  is  a certain  image  of  My  Passion. 
For,  in  My  Passion,  the  splendor  of  My  Divinity, 
and  the  very  beauty  of  My  Humanity  was  in  some 
manner  vailed:  and  are  not  the  lowly  and  gentle 
species  of  the  Sacrament  an  evident  representation 
of  this  vailing? 

3.  The  Sacrifice  of  the  life  of  My  Heart,  My 
death,  is  the  centre  of  time.  Whatever  had  gone 
before,  sacrifices,  ceremonies,  and  everything  else 
belonging  to  Religion,  had  reference  to  it:  thence 
they  derived  all  their  power  and  efficaciousness. 

In  like  manner,  whatever  follows  it,  Oblation, 
Sacraments,  and  the  rest,  all  have  relation  to  the 
same,  and  possess  thence  their  virtue  and  efficacy. 

Behold,  then,  the  Sacrifice  offered  up  from  the 
beginning  of  the  world  in  types,  upon  the  cross  in 
truth,  continued,  substantially,  in  the  Church  even 
to  the  end  of  ages. 

Such,  My  Child,  is  the  unfathomableness  of  the 
designs  of  My  Heart:  such  is  the  extent  of  My 
love! 

Hence,  My  whole  career  on  this  earth,  from  the 
beginning  even  to  the  end  of  the  world,  whether 
through  My  promised  presence,  My  mortal  life,  or 
My  Sacramental  abiding,  and  whatsoever  I effect 
by  these  means,  is  one  whole,  one  perfect  work  of 
infinite  Goodness;  to  be  completed  only  then,  when, 
at  the  end  of  time,  with  the  Church,  I shall  mount 
*>n  high,  to  enjoy  an  everlasting  triumph. 

4.  What  wonder,  then,  My  Child,  if  the  mystery 


CHAPTER  XIII, 


59° 


appears  to  thee  ever  new,  ever  equally  worthy  o> 
veneration,  when  thou  receivest  the  holy  Communion, 
when  thou  hearest  or  celebratest  the  holy  Mass  ? 

For,  when  thou  receivest  the  holy  Eucharist, 
thou  shouldst  ever  be  present  with  the  same  dispo- 
sition of  heart,  with  the  same  affection,  as  if  thou 
wert  at  the  last  Supper,  and  didst  sit  down  to  the 
same,  to  receive  from  Myself  the  Bread  of  life. 

It  is  in  reality  the  same  Supper:  and  the  same 
death,  that  I foreshowed  in  the  Supper-room,  thou 
showest  in  the  Sacrament. 

By  the  action  itself,  Child,  when  thou  celebratest 
Mass,  or  takest  the  holy  Communion,  thou  pro- 
claimest  My  death;  since  the  manner  of  either,  as 
well  of  the  offering  of  the  Sacrifice,  as  the  consum- 
ing of  the  Sacrament,  proclaims  the  same  death. 

5.  But  when  thou  art  engaged  in  mysteries,  so 
great,  which  My  Heart  by  Its  death  merited  for 
thee,  thou  must  also,  on  thy  part,  do  that,  whereby 
thou  mayst  be  enabled  to  commemorate  it  in  an  ap- 
propriate manner. 

As,  therefore,  in  My  Passion,  I offered  Myself 
to  God  the  Father  for  a perfect  holocaust;  so  thou 
also  shouldst  offer  thyself  to  Me  in  holy  Commun- 
ion as  a clean  and  entire  victim. 

Yea,  even  whilst  visiting  Me,  it  is  proper  that, 
with  great  feeling  of  piety,  thou  do  commemorate 
the  sacrifices  of  My  once  suffering  life:  which 
thou  wilt  do,  if  thou  meditatest  with  devotedness, 
if  thou  resignest  thyself  to  Me  in  every  affliction, 
if  thou  givest  thyself  wholly  to  Me,  in  the  presence 
of  the  sacred  Tabernacle;  where  all  thou  perceiv- 
est  around  thee  serves  to  put  thee  in  mind  of  those 
sacrificings  of  My  Heart. 


598  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 

Thus,  Child,  thou  wilt  better  feel  the  greatness 
of  that  charity,  whereby,  from  a life  of  labor  and 
sorrow,  I advanced  through  many  and  great  sacri- 
fices, to  that  last  and  supreme  sacrifice,  even  to 
death,  and  to  this  captivity  of  love,  wherein  I con 
tinue  an  abiding  Victim  of  love. 

By  affectionately  calling  this  to  mind,  wilt  thou 
not  be  excited  to  gratefulness,  to  a requital  of  love, 
to  imitation;  so  as  to  show  forth  in  thyself  the 
effect  of  My  example,  not  only  in  thy  heart  but 
also  in  thy  works? 

Thus,  whilst,  in  a practical  manner,  thou  com- 
memoratest  My  Passion  more  profitably  to  thy- 
self, thou  wilt  learn  not  to  be  cast  down  or  troubled 
by  humiliations;  but  rather,  in  a supernatural  man- 
ner, to  glory  and  rejoice  therein. 

This  active  remembrance  of  My  death  will  be 
perfect,  My  Child,  if  as  often  as  thou  approachest 
the  sacred  mysteries,  thou  dost  ever  more  and  more 
die  to  thyself  and  to  creatures,  in  order  that  thou 
mayst  live  for  Me,  as  I,  after  having  died  for  thee, 
here  live  for  thee. 

6.  But  alas!  although  there  are  many  who  wish 
to  be  refreshed  by  this  heavenly  food,  and  to  be 
thence  replenished  with  the  delights  of  the  Angels; 
how  few  there  are  willing  actively  to  recall  My 
Passion,  to  imitate  it  in  practice! 

Therefore  also,  My  Child,  many  are  and  continue 
ever  the  same,  ever  imperfect,  although  they  do  not 
unfrequently  approach  the  sacred  Table. 

For,  since  they  do  not  correspond  to  the  end  of 
its  divine  institution  and  to  grace  granted  therein, 
they  remain  deprived  of  much  fruit. 

Would  that  this  were  understood  by  those  souls, 


CHAPTER  XIII. 


599 


that  are  more  anxious  about  the  number  of  their 
Communions,  whereby  they  may  show  or  feel  devo- 
tion, than  about  the  fruit  of  them,  whereby  they 
may  be  sanctified  and  raised  to  greater  perfection! 

Thou,  Child,  be  thou  wiser  and  more  faithful. 
So  recall  My  Passion,  so  express  My  death  in  thy 
conduct,  that,  whenever  thou  receivest  the  holy 
Communion,  thou  dost  always  obtain  its  fruits  of 
sanctification. 

7.  The  voice  oj  the  Disciple. — O most  bountiful, 
most  sweet  Jesus!  Thou  didst  die  for  love  of  me. 
and  here  livest  for  me  by  love:  and  oh!  how  dosL 
Thou  here  live  for  me! 

Truly,  Lord,  truly  he  deserves  death,  who  refuses  to 
die  to  self,  that  he  may  live  for  Thee. 

If  Thou,  Lord  God,  thus  sacrificest  Thyself  for 
love  of  me,  how  is  it  anything  great,  how  is  it  won- 
derful, if  I,  wretched  creature,  sacrifice  myself  for 
love  of  Thee! 

And  yet,  I blush  to  say  it,  sometimes  I hesitate 
to  sacrifice,  not  myself,  but  a trifle,  some  pride, 
some  aversion,  or  inclination  of  corrupt  nature. 

Woe  is  me!  whilst  in  words  I make  profession 
of  loving  and  following  Thee,  I show  in  my  deeds, 
how  little  I cherish  Thee,  how  far  I am  from  a 
practical  remembrance  of  Thy  Passion,  from  a true 
Imitation  of  Thy  Heart. 

And  can  I complain  or  wonder,  that  my  Commu- 
nions produce  so  little  fruit  for  me? 

One  Communion  can  make  a person,  that  is  well- 
disposed  and  co-operates  with  Thy  grace,  a Saint. 
And,  after  so  many  Communions,  alas!  who  and 
what  am  I ? 

I myself,  O Lord,  I myself,  I own  it,  am  in 


Goo 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


fault:  for  in  so  many  Communions  I have  received 
grace  enough  to  sanctify  a thousand  souls;  but  I 
have  neglected  to  co-operate  therewith.  For  I 
acted  as  if  grace  alone,  without  my  co-operation, 
ought  to  sanctify  me:  and,  meanwhile,  I have  con- 
tinued to  live  for  nature,  not  for  grace,  for  myself, 
not  for  Thee. 

I acknowledge  that,  in  Thy  sight,  I have  become 
unworthy  of  life,  since,  abusing  Thy  infinite  love, 
I have  neglected  to  live  for  Thee. 

But  spare,  Lord  Jesus,  spare,  I beseech  Thee,  my 
past  negligence,  of  which,  for  Thy  love,  I repent 
exceedingly. 

Henceforth,  I will  be  more  faithful:  co-operat- 
ing with  the  grace  of  the  Sacrament,  I will  die  to 
the  things  of  this  world,  to  the  ill-ordered  inclina- 
tions of  nature,  that  I may  live  for  Thee. 

Assist  me,  most  kind  Jesus,  that  I may  thus 
prove  my  love  for  Thee  in  deed,  and  may  ever 
derive,  from  holy  Communion,  abundant  fruit  of 
sanctification. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  DISPLAYS  IN 
THIS  WONDERFUL  SACRAMENT  THE  SUM  AND 
SUBSTANCE  OF  ALL  DIVINE  MYSTERIES. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Being  merciful  and  gra- 
cious, the  love  of  Mv  Heart  has  made  a remem- 
brance of  Its  wonderful  works. 

This  It  has  chiefly  done  in  the  Sacrament,  where 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


601 


It  has  gathered  together  Its  astounding  prodigies, 
where  It  incloses  even  the  profound  mysteries  of 
God. 

And  because  these  things  were  done,  not  for  the 
Angels  but  for  men,  it  was  proper  that  it  should  be 
under  visible  symbols,  that,  by  the  sight  of  things 
seen,  they  might  be  put  in  mind  of  the  unseen,  and 
that  their  sensitive  heart  might  be  worked  upon  by 
sensitive  proofs  of  the  divine  love. 

Such  things,  therefore,  did  the  love  of  My  Heart 
do:  and  It  saw  that  all  It  had  done  was  exceed- 
ingly good,  and  It  was  delighted  with  Its  works. 

All  Its  works  are  perfect  and  full  of  sweetness, 
whereby  It  has  poured  out,  as  it  were,  the  riches 
of  Its  goodness  toward  men,  in  this  mystery,— 
wherein  the  plenitude  of  the  Divinity  corporally 
dwells. 

2.  Hence,  My  Child,  this  divine  Sacrament  pos- 
sesses, by  concomitance,  and  ever  recalls  to  the 
minds  of  the  faithful,  the  sublimest  of  mysteries, 
that  of  the  Trinity. 

For  I and  the  Father  are  one:  and  he  that  sees.' 
Me,  sees  also  the  Father;  but  where  the  Father 
and  the  Son  are  acknowledged,  the  love  of  the  two, 
which  is  the  Holy  Ghost,  is  certainly  not  unknown. 

But  to  know  this  mystery  the  better,  to  love  it 
the  more,  to  adore  it  the  more  worthily,  grace  is 
here  given  to  the  faithful,  that,  aided  and  enlight- 
ened thereby,  they  may  believe  it  more  firmly,  love 
it  with  purer  affection,  and  venerate  it  with  a more 
perfect  worship. 

Guided  by  this  light  from  above,  and  strengthened 
by  this  assistance,  they  proceed  from  one  mystery  to 
another. 


602 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


3.  For  behold!  the  most  sweet  mystery  of  the 
Incarnation  is  also  contained  in  the  holy  Eucharist, 
and  extended  in  a marvelous  manner. 

Indeed,  what  is  the  mystery  of  the  Incarnation? 
The  Word,  and  a Soul,  and  the  Body  come  together 
n one  Person:  and  these  three  are  one  Jesus,  the 
God-man. 

Now,  in  the  most  Blessed  Sacrament,  the  Word, 
that  is  Eternal  and  God;  the  Soul,  which  was  cre- 
ated when  it  was  infused;  the  Body,  which,  by  the 
divine  operation,  was  taken  without  blemish  of  the 
Immaculate  Virgin;  these  three  abide:  but  they 
abide  in  the  unity  of  Person. 

Moreover,  here  there  is  an  extension  of  this  mys- 
tery, marvelous  and  overflowing  with  every  delight. 
For  I,  the  same  who,  by  the  Incarnation,  dwelled 
in  the  bosom  of  the  Virgin,  dwell  by  the  Commun- 
ion in  the  heart  of  each  one  of  the  faithful  com- 
m unicants. 

Astounding,  indeed,  and  awe-inspiring  is  the 
depth  and  breadth  of  this  mystery;  but  it  is  all 
the  more  worthy  of  love,  it  should  be  relished  with 
the  more  delight,  devotion,  and  tenderness. 

4.  Besides,  all  the  mysteries,  so  full  of  consola- 
tion, of  My  whole  life  are  also  contained  in  this 
divine  Sacrament. 

For  although  the  time,  when  these  began  and 
took  place,  has  passed  away,  yet,  by  reason  of  My 
personal  presence,  these  continue  in  their  effects 
and  are  present. 

Therefore,  also,  the  Church  ever  views  and  cele- 
brates them  as  present:  and,  in  meditating  on  them 
and  commemorating  them,  she  is  ever  animated  with 
her  first  sentiments,  ever  burns  with  her  fervor. 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


603 


JLook,  on  the  other  hand,  at  heresies  and  sects 
which  deny  My  perpetual  presence  in  the  Eucha- 
rist: how  in  them  all  things  spiritual  languish: 
how  dead  their  ways  as  well  as  themselves,  when 
they  attempt  to  recall  My  actions  by  means  of  fes- 
tivals ! 

It  is  not  so  with  My  Beloved,  My  holy  Church. 
When  the  time  returns,  she  hastens  to  the  Cave  o : 
My  Nativity;  there  prostrate,  she  gazes  upon  Me, 
lying  in  the  manger;  she  adores,  rejoices,  sheds 
tears — through  tenderness  of  devotion. 

5.  Here  is  the  Bethlehem  where  faithful  souls 
find  Me  more  sweetly  and  more  easily  than  they 
whom  heaven  called  formerly  to  the  Stable:  where 
they  enkindle  their  fervor,  nourish  their  piety, 
sanctify  themselves:  where  they  pour  out  their 
hearts,  and  consecrate  them  to  Me:  where,  in  return, 
they  are  inebriated  and  rendered  blissful  with  the 
sweetness  of  My  love:  where  the  Angels  do  not 
promise  peace  to  men  of  good  will,  but  where  I 
Myself  bestow  it  upon  them  with  a lavish  Heart. 

Here  is  the  Sanctuary,  wherein  I am  presented 
to  God  the  Father,  and  devoted  to  the  salvation  of 
men;  wherein  I so  give  Myself  to  the  faithful,  that 
they  may  not  only  take  Me  into  their  arms,  like 
Simeon,  and  caress  Me  as  did  Anna,  but  receive  Me 
into  their  very  hearts,  and  enjoy  Me  intimately,  by 
a favor  granted  neither  to  Simeon  nor  to  the  blessed 
Anna. 

Here  is  the  exile  of  Egypt:  a banishment,  not, 
as  formerly,  of  seven  years,  but  of  all  ages:  a ban- 
ishment, among  men  likewise  given  to  idolatry, — 
who  worship  pleasures,  riches,  honors  as  their  dei- 
ties: a banishment  wherein  I am  unknown,  except 


004 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


to  a few,  and  looked  upon  and  slighted  by  many  as 
a stranger. 

Here  is  the  Temple,  wherein  I continue  to  be 
occupied  in  what  concerns  My  Father:  where,  in 
the  midst  of  the  listening  doctors,  I utter  My 
Spirit,  instruct  souls,  communicate  the  hidden 
things  of  the  spiritual  life:  where  they  that  love 
Me,  seek  Me,  and,  like  Mary  and  Joseph,  rejoic- 
ing find  Me. 

Here  is  Nazareth,  where  I lead  a life  hidden  in 
God:  where,  being  made  subject,  I am  occupied  in 
ceaseless  actions,  which  do  not  indeed  strike  the 
senses  of  men,  but  excite  the  admiration  of  Angels: 
where,  a pattern  of  the  interior  life,  I live  with  in- 
terior souls  in  a manner  known  to  them  alone. 

6.  Nay  more,  My  Child,  in  this  Sacrament  are 
seen  the  mysteries  of  My  Evangelical  life.  Beho  d 
here  truly  the  field  of  My  labors,  the  place  of  the 
well-doings  of  My  Heart. 

For  here  I am  the  Saviour , who  seek  that  which 
was  lost;  who,  amid  My  labors,  seat  Myself  near 
the  Well;  where  I give,  from  the  fountain  of  My 
Heart,  to  every  Samaritan — every  soul  that  thirsts, 
the  living  water,  which  quenches  the  thirst  for 
earthly  things,  and  springs  up  into  life  everlasting; 
who,  when  the  labors  of  the  day  are  over,  pass  the 
night  in  the  prayer  of  God. 

Here  I am  the  Good  Shepherd:  I go  in  search 
of  the  lost  sheep,  and,  when  found,  I carry  it,  and 
warm  it  in  My  bosom:  I love  Mv  flock,  and  feed 
the  same  with  My  own  substance:  I guard  all, 
watching  over  them  with  My  Heart,  by  day  and  by 
night. 

Here  I am  the  kind  Father , who  with  gladness 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


Ooc 

embrace  my  prodigal  son,  when  he  returns;  who, 
having  clothed  him  with  his  first  garment,  restore 
and  entertain  him  with  a heavenly  banquet:  and 
who,  according  to  their  capacity,  share  all  things 
with  My  faithful  children. 

Here  I am  the  divine  Physician , since  I soothe 
and  alleviate,  with  the  unction  of  My  Heart,  the 
sorrows  of  the  suffering:  since  I cure  the  souls  that 
are  ill,  healing  every  ailment  and  infirmity:  since 
I do  also  take  away  the  deformity  caused  by  the 
sickness  of  sin,  and  restore  former  beauty. 

Here  I am  a Teacher.  For  I teach  by  the  whis- 
perings of  Mv  Heart,  as  w7ell  as  by  My  example: 
Blessed  are  the  poor  in  spirit:  blessed  the  meek: 
blessed  they  that  mourn  for  sin:  blessed  they  that 
hunger  and  thirst  after  justice:  blessed  the  merci- 
ful: blessed  the  clean  of  heart:  blessed  the  peace- 
makers: blessed  they  that  suffer  persecution  for 
justice’s  sake:  blessed,  in  fine,  they  that  do  the 
divine  Will;  because  they  are  My  brethren  and  sis- 
ters, and  co-heirs  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

Here  I am  a Friend , who  style  the  faithful,  that, 
by  grace,  lead  a supernatural  life,  no  more  My  ser- 
vants, but  My  friends:  a Friend,  such  as  there  is 
none  other,  more  sincere,  more  sweet,  more  faithful 
than  all,  in  prosperity  and  in  adversity,  in  life  and 
in  death:  a Friend  that  under  no  circumstances  is 
wanting,  yea,  accompanying  and  consoling  even  in 
eternity. 

Here  I am  the  Bridegroom:  yea,  My  Child;  the 
divine  Bridegroom  of  virginal  and  chaste  souls, 
whom  I have  chosen  and  espoused  to  Myself,  that, 
always  and  everywhere,  they  may  follow  Me  as  My 
companions;  them  I here  honor  and  enrich,  and 


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THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


render  blissful,  in  a manner  which  fills  the  very 
Angels  with  wonder,  and  yet  is  merely  a prelude 
to  that  which  I reserve  for  them  in  the  kingdom  of 
My  glory. 

7.  Here,  lastly,  are  also  the  mysteries  of  the  rest 
of  My  life.  For,  is  not  here  the  Supper-room, 
where  I eat  the  Passover  with  My  Disciples;  where 
I pour  out  My  Heart  to  them;  where  I leave  them 
My  peace? 

Is  not  here  Gethsemane,  Jerusalem,  the  theatre 
of  My  sorrows?  Remember,  Child,  the  Holy  Week, 
how  the  faithful  come  hither,  as  to  the  spectacle  of 
My  Sufferings;  how  they  weep,  as  if  before  their 
eyes  they  beheld  Me  in  suffering. 

Is  not  here,  too,  the  mystery  of  the  Resurrection? 
See  how  the  Church,  when  celebrating  this  solem- 
nity of  solemnities,  returns,  as  it  were,  with  Me  to 
life,  and  how,  like  other  Marys,  at  the  first  dawn, 
pious  souls  hasten  to  My  glorious  Sepulchre,  and 
behold  Me,  by  faith,  in  My  glory;  embrace  Me,  by 
hope,  enjoy  Me,  by  love.  And  is  this  not  lawfully 
so?  is  it  not  rightly?  is  it  not  sacredly?  for,  here 
I am  truly  present  with  the  same  qualities  with 
which  I rose  again:  with  a heavenly  beauty,  with 
a glorious  brightness,  with  an  incomprehensible 
subtility,  with  a perfect  impassibility,  adorned  and 
blissful  with  immortality. 

Thus,  My  Child,  the  Church  accompanies  Me 
through  every  mystery,  puts  on  in  each  of  them  the 
feelings  of  My  Heart,  and  celebrates  each  with 
similar  affections. 

8.  From  the  mysteries  here  celebrated  before  Me, 
the  Church,  mindful  that  I am  reigning  in  the  glory 
of  heaven,  gazes  forward  into  eternity:  she  con- 


CHAPTER  XIV. 


607 


templates  with  rapture,  she  anticipates  in  affection, 
those  most  joyous  mysteries  of  the  life  in  heaven, 
those  ever-enduring  festivals  prepared  for  her,  prom- 
ised to  her. 

O Jesus!  she  exclaims  in  her  ardor,  may  that 
soon  be  for  which  I long  so  exceedingly,  that,  be- 
holding  Thee  with  face  unvailed,  I may  be  blessed 
with  the  sight  of  Thy  glory. 

Thus,  Child,  glows  the  Church,  enkindled  with 
the  fire  of  My  Heart  here  present:  thus  has  she  all 
things  present  to  herself:  thus  is  she  filled  with 
every  consolation. 

Take  the  sun  away  cut  of  this  world;  what  will 
this  earth  be,  except  a dark,  cold,  and  dreary  place? 
In  like  manner,  if  My  living  and  life-giving  Heart, 
if  My  Sacramental  presence  were  taken  away  from 
the  Church,  all  the  mysteries  of  Religion,  now  so 
full  of  splendor,  so  soul-stirring,  so  consoling, — - 
how  different  should  they  then  appear. 

9.  Taught  by  the  example  of  thy  holy  Mother, 
apply  thyself,  My  Child,  to  celebrate  the  festivals 
of  Religion  with  the  same  feelings;  to  recall  to 
mind  the  mysteries  which  I display  here  in  the 
Sacrament;  in  fine,  to  draw  for  thyself,  from  all 
these  sources,  the  plenitude  of  all  graces. 

For  this  end  do  thou  animate  the  fervor  of  thv 
heart:  a fervor,  I say,  not  necessarily  sensible,  but 
vigorous  with  the  liveliness  of  faith,  the  confidence 
of  hope,  the  generosity  of  love. 

If  thou  art  destitute  of  this  fervor,  thou  wilt  do 
everything  without  affection,  without  relish,  with- 
out much  fruit:  that  which  enraptures  fervent 
souls,  stirs  up  the  Angels  themselves,  will  not  affect, 
will  not  move  thee. 


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THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


But  this  fervor  thou  wilt  awaken  and  foster  in 
thyself  by  prayer,  by  devout  meditation,  by  pious 
reading,  by  mortifying  and  denying  thyself  in  some 
things;  and,  especially,  by  frequently  visiting  this 
divine  Sacrament,  and  by  religiously  partaking 
thereof;  since  here  there  is  fire  enough  to  inflame 
the  whole  world. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord  Jesus! 
how  boundless  are  the  excesses  of  the  love  of  Thy 
Heart!  how  many  wonders  dost  Thou  here  present 
to  me!  how  many  good  things!  how  sweet!  how 
desirable! 

What  wonder  if  I am  allured,  if  I am  gently  and 
powerfully  drawn  hither!  what  wonder  if  here  is 
the  place  of  my  heart’s  delights! 

Here,  amidst  the  Angels,  I can  find  Thee  in  every 
mystery;  I can  behold  Thee  in  every  condition  of 
Thy  life,  as  my  necessities,  my  profit,  or  my  com- 
fort may  require. 

Yea,  here  I can  now  be  with  Thee  and  enjoy  Thy 
favors;  here  again,  if  I lift  myself  up,  I may  con- 
template Thee  in  Thy  glory,  view  the  wonders  of 
Thy  kingdom,  and  rejoice  beforehand  in  what  Thou 
hast  there  prepared  for  me. 

How  easy,  O Beloved  of  my  soul!  how  easy  and 
sweet  it  is,  to  meditate  here,  to  occupy  the  mind 
and  the  heart  with  Thee  here,  to  enjoy  Thee  here! 
for  this  I need  no  skill,  no  book,  no  labor.  Here, 
present  before  Thee,  I need  only  gaze  upon  Thee 
by  faith  in  every  mystery,  hearken  to  Thee,  watch 
Thy  actions,  implore  Thee,  love  Thee. 

O how  delightful  is  this  place!  how  lovely  the 
company!  howT  sweet  the  employment!  how  holy 
the  intercourse! 


CHAPTER  XV. 


609 

Who  does  not  wish  to  be  here  with  Thee  forever? 
Here  certainly  I will  be  present  at  Thy  feet,  among 
the  heavenly  spirits,  as  often  as  I can. 

O that  I could  spend  here  all  my  time!  But 
Thy  Will,  which  is  my  sole  comfort,  requires  that 
I be  often  absent  in  person,  that  I comply  with  the 
obligations  of  my  state,  that  I fulfill  the  duties  of 
my  office,  that  I provide  for  the  needs  of  nature, 
that  I even  use  an  innocent  relaxation. 

Yet,  amidst  all  these,  I will  frequently  turn  in 
affection  to  Thee,  I will  occupy  my  heart  with 
Thee:  for  wherever  is  the  object  of  my  love,  thither 
also  tends  my  heart:  wheresoever  my  treasure  is, 
there  also  will  be  my  heart. 


CHAPTER  XV. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE  MOST 
BLESSED  SACRAMENT  OF  THE  EUCHARIST,  LEADS 
US  TO  THE  DIVINE  PERFECTIONS. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — Attend,  My  Child,  and 
here,  in  the  Sacrament,  I will  show  thee  a still 
higher  way,  whereby  thou  mayst  ascend  in  contem- 
plation even  to  the  very  perfections  of  the  Deity. 

Be  thou  prepared,  that  thou  mayst  enter  into  the 
divine  secrets,  and  that,  with  all  the  Saints,  thou 
mavst  contemplate  the  height,  and  breadth,  and 
depth  of  those  oceans,  whence  in  heaven  the  Angels 
and  Blessed,  and,  on  earth,  pure  and  interior  souls 
draw,  and  are  inebriated. 


6io 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Behold  what  My  Heart  makes  known  to  thee 
here  in  this  most  sacred  mystery:  and,  following 
the  divine  Spirit,  from  what  is  here  made  known, 
go  thou  forward  into  the  plenitude  of  things. 

But  do  all  this  in  such  a manner,  My  Child,  that 
thou  becomest  more  and  more  established  in  hu- 
mility, that  thou  ever  glowest  with  a purer  love,  so 
that,  being  introduced  by  My  sacred  Humanity,  by 
My  Heart  Itself  thou  mayst  cling — as  forming  but 
one  and  the  same  Spirit — to  the  Deity,  as  perfectly 
as  thou  art  able. 

2.  Look  into  and  ponder  the  divine  Wisdom 
which  My  Heart  displays  in  this  adorable  Sacra- 
ment. 

Here  It  shows  forth  those  marvelous  inventions, 
whereby  It  reconciled  those  things  which  appeared 
contrary;  so  that,  at  one  and  the  same  time,  I 
should  reign  amidst  glorious  triumphs  in  heaven, 
and  abide  uoon  earth  the  everlasting  Comforter  of 
men;  whereby  I might  be  enabled  to  give  Myself 
not  only  to  the  human  race,  but  to  every  individual 
as  well:  whereby,  m fine,  through  the  most  simple 
means,  such  as  those  of  the  Sacramental  species,  I 
might  obtain  the  most  sublime  ends. 

Hence  do  thou  mount  higher,  and  contemplate 
this  infinite  Wisdom,  which  reaches  all  things  from 
eternity  to  eternity:  which  beholds  all  present,  the 
past  and  the  future,  things  existing  and  things  pos- 
sible. 

This,  by  its  eternal  counsels,  ordained,  in  a man- 
ner so  marvelous,  all  the  stupendous  works  of  the 
Creation  and  Restoration,  of  nature  and  grace,  of 
sanctification  and  glory. 

This  divine  perfection  is  like  an  infinite  light, 


CHAPTER  XV. 


til 

which  penetrates  all;  which  completely  surveys 
thee  and  thy  whole  interior;  from  which  thou  canst 
not  recede,  which  thou  art  unable  to  grasp. 

In  this  light  do  thou  rejoice,  My  Child:  herein 
live  thou  cheerfully  for  thy  God. 

3.  Observe  the  divine  Goodness , which  is  made 
manifest  in  this  most  sweet  Sacrament,  and  is 
resplendent  with  such  flames  of  love. 

Nowhere  on  earth  does  the  divine  Goodness 
shine  forth  with  so  wonderful  a profusion,  with  so 
great  a sweetness:  for  here  it  does,  as  it  were,  pour 
out  and  exhaust  itself:  here  it  gives  all  things  and 
itself  over  and  above.  Elsewhere,  are  the  rays  of 
divine  love,  here  is  its  focus.  Elsewhere,  there 
are  some  good  things,  here  is  the  fountain  of  them 
all. 

From  this,  proceed  thou  to  the  contemplation  of 
this  abyss  of  Goodness.  Look  into  its  depth,  sur- 
vey eternity  itself;  thou  shalt  find  no  bounds. 

From  this  infinite  Goodness  everything  that  is 
good,  whether  in  heaven  or  on  earth,  derives  its 
goodness:  everything  that  lives,  its  life:  every- 
thing that  moves,  its  vigor:  everything  that  under- 
stands, its  intelligence:  everything  that  is  happy, 
its  bliss. 

This  divine  attribute  is,  as  it  were,  a boundless 
ocean,  whence  arises  as  a cloud,  the  plenitude  of 
all  things  good*  into  which,  while  the  Blessed  and 
Elect  are  immersed,  they  rejoice  in  supreme  de- 
light. 

My  Child,  plunge  thyself  also  into  the  same: 
taste  how  sweet  is  the  Goodness  of  thy  God: 
therein  do  thou  rejoice,  love,  praise. 

4.  Behold  the  Almighlv  Power x which  is  re- 


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THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


vealed  in  the  venerable  mystery  of  the  Eucharist, 
in  which  alone  it  works  more  and  greater  wonders 
than  in  all  the  world  beside:  in  which  it  ceases  not 
to  renew  these  astonishing  prodigies. 

After  having  reverently  viewed  these  things,  lift 
thyself  up  to  a general  contemplation  of  this  stu- 
pendous Omnipotence;  which,  without  labor,  at  its 
mere  pleasure,  made  all  things  that  have  existence: 
which  produces  countless  and  unutterable  objects 
of  every  kind,  all  things,  in  short,  if  it  only  wills: 
which,  again,  by  its  simple  nod,  is  able  to  destroy 
the  whole  world,  and  bring  all  things  to  naught. 

Contemplate  the  efficacy  of  this  infinite  Power, 
which  can  overthrow  all  the  attempts  of  its  oppo- 
nents, and  bring  it  to  pass  that  all  things  warring 
against  it, — not  only  those  which  are  indifferent, 
but  even  such  as  are  evil, — do,  unconsciously,  and 
even  in  spite  of  themselves,  concur  to  its  own  holy 
ends. 

By  this  Omnipotence,  not  only  are  creatures  pre- 
served in  being,  but  they  receive  besides  power  to 
effect  whatsoever  they  do:  men  receive  the  divine 
concurrence  to  use  the  faculties  of  body  and  soul: 
animals  their  efficiency:  the  stars  their  force  of 
rolling  and  glittering  in  space:  the  earth  its  vigor 
to  produce  fruits:  the  winds  and  storms  their  might 
and  impetuosity:  in  fine,  all  things  their  excel- 
lence. 

This  divine  perfection,  in  its  manifestation,  is 
like  the  atmosphere,  which,  when  it  is  gently 
stirred,  refreshes  and  invigorates  the  life  of  crea- 
tures: when  it  moves  with  violence,  lays  prostrate 
and  scatters  whatever  opposes,  but  to  whatever  yields, 
gives  a new  impulse,  and  helps  it  to  go  forward. 


CHAPTER  XV. 


613 


Rejoice,  My  Child,  at  so  great  a Power  of  thv 
God:  place  thy  trust  therein;  and,  by  prayer, 
have  frequently  recourse  to  the  same. 

5.  Consider  the  divine  Justice , of  which  Mv 
Heart  reminds  thee  in  this  most  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment. 

Behold!  My  sacred  Humanity,  which  is  here 
present  for  thee,  is  the  sign  of  the  divine  Justice; 
for  I assumed  it,  to  make  satisfaction  to  the  same. 
And  does  not  the  Sacrifice,  which  My  Heart  here 
offers  daily,  through  the  ministry  of  the  priests, 
put  thee  in  mind  of  the  divine  Justice?  Nav 
more,  do  I not  display  an  adorable  Justice  in  the 
Communion,  when  I give  there  to  every  one  accord- 
ing to  his  works,  according  to  his  disposition? 

Contemplate  thence  the  perfection  of  this  divine 
Justice,  whether  in  heaven, — whence  it  hurled,  like 
lightning,  the  wickedly  rebellious  spirits;  and 
wherein  it  recompenses  forever  with  a condign  re- 
ward all,  even  the  least,  good  deeds  of  the  Angels 
and  Saints: — or  whether  on  earth,  where,  through 
My  Heart,  it  is  allied  to  the  divine  mercy,  and 
reaches  those  only  who  are  unwilling  to  embrace 
mercy;  where,  also,  when  it  is  justly  incensed,  it  is 
mindful  of  mercy: — or  whether  in  hell,  where,  for 
My  sake,  it  punishes  below  the  full  desert  of  the 
reprobate,  and  so  adapts  punishment  to  the  number 
and  grievousness  of  sins,  that  it  forces  the  con- 
demned themselves  to  confess  that  the  divine  Jus- 
tice is  good. 

Consider  the  consolation  of  this  divine  attribute 
which  will  one  day  justify,  in  the  presence  of  all, 
them  that  are  now  oppressed  by  unmerited  detrac- 
tion, by  reproaches,  or  by  calumnies;  and  which 


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THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


will  not  only  restore  reputation,  and  honor,  and 
glory,  and  whatsoever  else  has  been  taken  away, 
but  will  exalt  all  things  the  more,  the  lower  they 
have  been  depressed;  which  will  make  good,  by  an 
ever-enduring  reward,  all  deeds  of  virtue,  even 
those  which  men  slighted;  which,  in  fine,  estimates 
and  repays  the  merits  of  works,  not  according  to 
their  outward  success,  as  does  the  world,  but  accord- 
ing to  the  inward  disposition  of  him  that  pei  forms 
them. 

This  divine  perfection  is  like  fire,  which,  accord- 
ing as  objects  are  disposed,  by  the  same  action, 
consumes  these,  cheers  those;  hardens  some,  soft- 
ens others. 

Admire  this  attribute  of  the  Deity,  My  Child; 
exalt  it  with  a holy  fear;  but  cherish  it  more. 

6.  Direct  thy  mind  to  the  divine  Mercy , which 
My  Heart  displays  in  the  most  Holy  Sacrament,  in 
ways  as  sweet  as  they  are  wonderful. 

Is  not  this  whole  mystery  a marvel  of  infinite 
Mercy?  Who  is  there  alive,  that  does  not  endure 
misery?  but  what  unfortunate  one  has  come  hither 
with  proper  dispositions,  and  has  not  found  mercy? 
Boundless  is  here  the  kindness  of  Mv  Heart,  and 
there  is  no  end  to  Its  compassion. 

When  thou  hast  devoutly  meditated  hereon, 
proceed  to  the  consideration  of  the  infinite  Mercy 
visible  everywhere:  in  heaven,  which  the  divine 
Mercy  fills  with  Saints,  whom  formerly  it  freed 
from  sin  and  now  crowns  with  bliss:  on  earth, 
where  it  hovers  over  all  the  works  of  God,  and 
refreshes  them  by  remedy,  and  assistance,  and  con- 
solation: finally,  in  hell  itself,  where,  on  account 
of  the  merits  of  My  Heart,  it  punishes  less  than 


CHAPTER  XV. 


615 

what  is  due,  and  is  acknowledged  by  the  reprobate 
themselves. 

Contemplate  the  vastness  of  this  divine  Mercy 
toward  men;  which  embraces  all,  excludes  none, 
casts  off  nobody;  which  waits  for  the  very  sinners  so 
long  as  they  live,  and  offers  them  grace  sufficient 
for  their  conversion  and  pardon;  which,  in  fine, 
extends  itself  to  all  miseries  of  whatsoever  kind, 
and  finds  naught  in  this  world,  how  wretched 
soever  it  may  be,  which  it  is  not  willing  to  relieve, 
and,  in  a direct  or  indirect  manner,  to  turn  into  a 
means  of  salvation. 

Behold,  a divine  perfection,  like  an  infinite 
abyss,  which  no  magnitude  of  miseries  cast  into  it, 
can  fill  up;  which  no  multiplicity  of  necessities 
which  draw  therefrom,  can  exhaust. 

Use  thou,  My  Child,  but  do  not  abuse  so  sweet 
an  attribute  of  thy  God:  widen  thy  heart:  be 
thankful:  fly  to  this  abyss  of  mercy  with  faith, 
with  hope,  with  love. 

7.  Observe  the  Sanctity  which  shines  forth  in 
this  Holy  of  Holies;  which  by  its  splendor  throws 
the  Angels  themselves  into  an  ecstasy. 

With  deep  piety  look  thou  into  this  Sacrament, 
the  mirror  of  the  divine  Sanctity.  Here,  every- 
thing is  perfect  purity:  here,  My  Body  is  itself  as 
a Spirit;  here,  all  breathes  holiness. 

Hence,  thou  mayst  contemplate  infinite  Sanc- 
tity, which,  absolutely  perfect  in  itself,  is  the  cause, 
the  standard,  the  end  of  all  created  holiness,  of  all 
purity,  of  all  beauty;  which  is  such  that  nothing 
can  be  added  thereto,  nothing  be  taken  there- 
from. 

Gaze  upon  this  divine  perfection;  captivated  by 


6i6 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


the  purest  beauty  of  which,  the  inhabitants  of 
heaven  are  overspread  with  a beatific  joy:  by  the 
similitude  of  which,  when  the  souls  of  mortals  are 
adorned,  they  become  supremely  ennobled:  on 
account  of  the  majesty  of  which,  the  demons  trem- 
ble even  in  the  lowest  hell. 

From  the  brightness  of  this  perfection,  whatso- 
ever is  beautiful,  whatsoever  is  lovely,  whatsoever 
is  excellent,  borrows  its  every  beauty,  its  every  love- 
liness, its  every  excellence. 

This  divine  attribute  is  like  the  sun  in  the  firma- 
ment; which  imparts  to  objects  the  brightness  of 
color,  elegance,  cheerfulness:  which,  shining  upon 
things  clean  and  unclean,  is  ever  equally  pure,  evtr 
equally  beautiful. 

Rejoice  thou,  My  Child,  at  so  great  a beauty  and 
loveliness;  so  great  and  varied  an  excellence  of  the 
sanctity  of  thy  God:  affectionately  revere  the  samu, 
imitate  it  according  to  thy  ability. 

8.  Behold  the  divine  Immensity , which  this  Sac- 
rament of  My  Heart  represents. 

For  here  I am  wholly  in  the  whole  Consecrated 
Host,  and  wholly  in  every  particle  of  the  Host 
when  divided.  And  by  the  multiplication  or  rep- 
lication of  My  presence  in  all  the  Hosts,  all  over 
the  earth,  do  I not  display  a certain  representation 
of  immensity?  Finally,  in  every  place,  where  I 
abide  sacramentally,  do  I not  so  deal  with  each  one 
as  if  I there  abode  for  him  alone? 

By  conceiving  these  things  with  a lively  faith, 
thou  wilt  assuredly  be  led  to  the  contemplation  of 
the  divine  immensity,  which  contains  all  things, 
whether  existing  or  whether  merely  possible,  and  is 
contained  by  none:  whereby  the  Deity  is  wholly 


CHAPTER  XV. 


617 


in  the  whole  universe,  and  wholly  in  every  part  of 
the  universe. 

Contemplate  this  universal  presence  of  the  Di- 
vinity, together  with  His  infinite  Wisdom,  and 
Goodness  and  Power,  and  Justice,  and  Mercy,  and 
Sanctity,  and  infinite  Perfection  of  every  kind:  and 
remember  that  in  Him  thou  art,  thou  livest,  thou 
movest. 

Whithersoever  thou  mayst  turn  thyself,  thou 
perceivest  the  Deity  present  in  every  object,  and  so 
caring  for  the  same,  as  if  He  were  there  for  it  alone. 
Behold  the  birds  of  the  air:  they  neither  sow  nor 
reap,  and  yet  He  that  is  present  everywhere,  feeds 

them.  Consider  the  lilies  of  the  field:  they  labor 
not,  neither  do  they  spin;  and  yet,  not  even  Solo- 
mon in  all  his  glory  was  arrayed  as  one  of  these. 

To  this  divine  Providence,  therefore,  do  thou  in- 
trust thyself:  rest  thou  in  the  same,  as  in  the  bosom 
of  a Father  supremely  perfect:  abandon  thyself 
wholly  to  Him,  for  He  has  a care  of  thee.  Behold 
the  very  hairs  of  thy  head  are  all  numbered, 
neither  does  one  fall  without  His  Will.  Fear  not 

then,  neither  be  thou  troubled,  nor  uneasy:  but 
live  resigned  to  Him,  and  blissful  in  Him. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Truly  full  of  con- 
solation is  all  this,  O Lord  God,  but  how  sublime! 
Of  my  own  accord,  I neither  dare  nor  can  essay 
things  so  exalted. 

If,  however,  Thy  divine  Spirit  guide  *Ue,  rever- 
ently indeed  and  conscious  of  my  own  weakness, 
I will  follow  Thee  with  joy  and  security,  and  hav- 
ing entered,  through  Thy  most  sacred  Humanity, 
into  the  wonderful  works  of  the  Divinity,  I will  con- 
template the  things  which  surpass  all  understanding. 


6i8 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Send,  therefore,  I beseech  Thee,  Thv  Holy  Spirit 
to  lead  me  so  far  into  this  contemplation  as  Thou 
wilt  kindly  deem  it  conducive  to  my  sanctification 
and  Thy  glory. 

Grant  me,  I humbly  implore  Thee,  this  divine 
Spirit,  with  His  seven-fold  gifts,  that  He  may  guide 
me  both  in  contemplation  and  in  action. 

The  Spirit  of  wisdom,  who  may  so  dispose  me 
wholly,  that  I do  find  all  things  of  earth  distasteful, 
and  those  of  God  full  of  delight;  that  I do  rightly 
judge  and  feel  concerning  all;  that  I seek  with 
affection  after  whatsoever  serves  for  my  sanctifi- 
cation. 

The  Spirit  of  understanding,  to  remove  and  dis- 
perse darkness  of  mind,  illusions  of  heart ; that, 
with  a calm  mind  and  clean  heart,  I may  view  all 
that  infinite  Goodness  has  made,  things  seen  and 
unseen;  and  that  I may  ever  understand  what  the 
divine  Will,  infinitely  good,  requires  of  me. 

The  Spirit  of  counsel,  to  remind  me  ever  of  my 
own  weakness, — whereby  i am  unable  to  do  aught 
for  my  salvation, — and  to  induce  me  efficaciously  to 
have  recourse  to  the  help  of  divine  Omnipotence, 
by  whose  aid  I can  do  all  things. 

The  Spirit  of  fortitude,  that  He  may  move  me 
to  exert  all  my  strength,  to  co-operate  faithfully 
with  the  help  of  divine  grace;  that  thus  I may,  by 
generous  efforts,  aspire  after  perfect  justice,  without 
caring  for  the  judgments  of  men,  regarding  Thee 
alone,  the  just  Judge. 

The  Spirit  of  knowledge,  that  He  may  teach  me 
discernment,  whereby  I may,  practically,  distinguish 
between  things  natural  and  supernatural;  so  that 
my  every  prayer  and  action  may  alwavs  begin  from 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


619 


Thee,  and  be  perfected  through  Thee;  and  whereby 
I may  so  devote  myself  to  praying  and  acting,  that, 
for  the  sweetness  of  contemplation,  I do  neither 
neglect  the  works  of  corporal  and  spiritual  mercy 
toward  my  neighbor,  nor,  for  the  sake  of  works  of 
mercy  toward  others,  overlook  mercy  toward  my 
own  soul. 

The  Spirit  of  piety,  who,  by  fostering  in  me  a 
tender  devotion,  may  stimulate  me  gently  and 
strongly  to  holiness;  and  may  cause  me  to  conduct 
myself  as  a compassionate  parent  toward  inferiors, 
as  an  affectionate  brother  toward  equals,  as  a duti- 
ful son  toward  Superiors. 

The  Spirit  of  a loving  fear,  of  a filial,  pure  love; 
whereby  I may,  everywhere,  supremely  revere  Thee, 
my  God,  and  joyfully  fulfill,  with  a holy  affection, 
Thy  every  Will. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

HOW  GREAT  A REVERENCE,  BOTH  OUTWARD  AND 
INWARD,  THE  HEART  OF  JESUS  WILLS  US  TO 
HAVE  FOR  THE  MOST  BLESSED  SACRAMENT. 

i.  The  voice  0}  Jesus. — My  Child,  if  the  heavens 
were  thrown  open  before  thee,  and  if  thy  eyes  be- 
held there  My  glory;  how  thou  wouldst  be  affected 
by  this  sight!  how  thou  wouldst  tremble  with  holy 
awe!  with  what  reverence  thou  wouldst  fall  pros- 
trate! 

For,  before  My  throne,  sending  forth  the  splen- 
dors of  glory,  like  blazing  flames  and  lightnings, 
thou  shouldst  behold  thousands  of  thousands  of 


620 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Angels  praising  Me  with  all  veneration;  and,  stand- 
ing around  the  throne,  ten  thousand  times  a hun- 
dred thousand  ministering  to  Me. 

Thou  shouldst,  also,  behold  the  mighty  throng 
of  Saints,  whom  thou  couldst  not  count,  falling 
upon  their  faces  in  sight  of  the  throne,  adoring,  and 
melting  with  love. 

Thou  shouldst  behold  how  everything  is  aglow 
in  My  presence:  at  one  time  thou  shouldst  perceive 
how,  by  reason  of  the  greatness  of  the  all-pervading 
reverence,  there  reigns  a deep  silence  throughout 
heaven;  at  another,  how  the  whole  place  resounds 
with  the  voice  of  its  inhabitants,  bursting  forth  and 
singing  in  unison:  Amen:  blessing,  and  glory,  and 
wdsdorn  and  thanksgiving,  and  honor,  and  power, 
and  strength,  to  our  God  forever  and  ever. 

Now,  My  Child,  I the  same,  who  in  heaven  am 
worshiped  with  such  a manifestation  of  honor  and 
praise,  am  here  present  in  the  most  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment, surrounded  by  a multitude  of  heavenly 
Spirits. 

See,  therefore,  and  consider,  how  mortals  ought 
to  conduct  themselves  toward  Me.  If  the  very  pil- 
lars of  heaven  tremble  with  awe,  what  should  the 
dust  of  the  earth  do? 

2.  Here,  I desire  reverence,  here  I claim  honor, 
here  I exact  due  worship. 

By  the  free  choice  of  My  Heart,  I was  born  in  a 
stable,  and  I so  passed  My  mortal  life,  that  I had 
not  where  to  recline  My  head;  but,  when  I was 
about  to  institute  this  most  Holy  Sacrament,  I or- 
dered to  be  prepared  a large  Supper-room  furnished, 
to  show  how  much  I wished  to  be  respected  and 
honored,  and  worshiped  in  My  Sacramental  life. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


621 


Taught  by  this,  the  Church  has  ever  loved  the 
beauty  of  My  house,  and  erected,  to  the  best  of  her 
power,  magnificent  temples:  she  has  called  to  her 
aid  nature,  that  by  richness,  and  art,  that  by  genius, 
they  might  adorn  My  chosen  dwelling-places:  ever 
full  of  solicitude,  she  has  taken  care  that,  accord- 
ing to  the  desire  of  My  Heart,  she  may  honor  Me 
every  way  in  this  most  august  mystery,  and  thus 
testify  her  own  love  for  Me. 

If  thou  lovest  Me,  My  Child,  yea,  if  thou  hast 
faith,  and  by  its  supernal  light,  viewest  My  Maj- 
esty here  vailed,  and  all  that  visibly  and  invisibly 
surrounds  Me,  thou  wilt  surely  ever  exhibit  here 
supreme  reverence. 

Thou  wilt  not  here  appear  before  Me  among  the 
Angels,  except  inwardly  and  outwardly  full  of  rec- 
ollection and  veneration;  thou  wilt  show  interi- 
orly and  exteriorly  naught  save  piety  and  devoted- 
ness, reverential  awe,  and  love. 

3.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Truly,  O Lord 
Jesus,  Thou,  the  love  and  beatitude  of  all  the  An- 
gels and  Saints!  truly,  Thou  art  here  to  be  wor- 
shiped with  every  regard,  with  every  sanctity  of 
love.  Holiness  becomes  Thy  very  Tabernacle,  Thy 
very  house. 

For  Thou  art  the  Holy  of  Holies,  and  dwellest 
in  Holiness,  where  the  Angelic  Spirits  themselves 
appear  trembling  with  awe,  and  admire  the  unap- 
proachable splendors  of  sanctity. 

How,  then,  shall  a mortal  man,  if  he  considers 
Thy  infinite  Majesty,  and  his  own  utter  unworthi- 
ness, dare  to  present  himself  before  Thee? 

Assuredly,  didst  Thou  Thyself  not  invite  me^  to 
draw  near,  and  did  not  the  well-known  goodness  of 


622 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Thy  Heart  calm  the  vehemence  of  my  dread;  fright- 
ened, I would  depart  from  Thee,  because  I am  a 
sinful  person;  neither  should  I dare  to  come  to 
Thee,  lest,  perhaps,  I might  be  guilty  of  Thy  of- 
fended Majesty. 

But  behold!  that  very  kindness  of  Thy  Heart, 
which  calls  on  me  so  mercifully,  and  breathes  con- 
fidence into  me  with  so  fatherly  an  affection,  is  a 
new  cause  for  reverence. 

For  if,  through  want  of  reverence,  I misuse  this 
grace,  I become  the  more  guilty,  since  I am  bad, 
because  Thou  art  good. 

4.  O Christ  Jesus,  my  God,  All-knowing  and 
All-powerful!  how  awe-inspiring  is  this  place, 
wherein  Thou  art  truly  present! 

How  shall  I demean  myself,  in  a manner  worthy 
of  Thy  presence  in  this  most  Holy  Sacrament; 
where  all  that  I behold  around  me,  warns  me  that 
the  highest  respect  must  be  shown! 

This  ever-burning  light  tells  me  that,  through  a 
lively  faith,  I should  be  mindful  where,  and  in 
whose  presence  I am. 

The  secluded  Sanctuary  warns  me,  that  the  place 
of  Thy  abode  is  holy  with  no  ordinary  sanctity. 

The  lofty  Tabernacle  reminds  me  how  lowly 
and  full  of  reverential  feeling  I ought  to  appear  in 
Thv  sight. 

The  brightness  of  the  sacred  vessels  teaches  me 
how  great  an  inward  and  outward  purity  is  re^ 
quired. 

Every  soul,  here  rapt  in  thought,  busied  with 
Thy  love,  admonishes  me,  with  how  great  a devo- 
tion, with  how  tender  an  affection,  it  behooves  me 
to  deal  with  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


623 

5.  O Jesus,  God  of  all  sanctity!  Thou  teachest 
me  how  perfect  a reverence  must  here  be  shown 
to  Thee;  since  Thou  art  not  willing  that  any  one 
should  be  near  to  Thee  here,  or  dwell  beneath  the 
same  roof  with  Thee,  except  heavenly  Spirits,  and 
those  angels  of  earth,  religious  persons,  and  Thy 
priests;  who  are  to  be  so  clean  of  heart  that  they 
may  deserve  to  see  God,  so  chaste  in  body  that  they 
may  embrace  purity  itself! 

With  what  dispositions  of  body  and  soul  ought 
I,  therefore,  to  come  hither,  since  I am  associated 
with  so  pure,  so  holy  a company! 

If  Daniel,  if  Tobias,  if  John,  the  beloved  Disci- 
pie,  if  other  Saints,  in  the  presence  of  one  Angel, 
were  so  struck  with  his  aspect,  and  seized  with  so 
great  a reverence,  that  they  fell  prostrate  upon  the 
ground ; with  what  sentiments  should  I be  ani- 
mated here,  where  I am  in  the  presence  of  so  many 
Angels;  yea,  even  before  Thyself,  the  Lord  of  all 
the  Angels! 

Surely,  no  unbefitting  thought,  no  inferior  affection 
ought  to  occupy  me  here.  Nay  more,  as  often  as  I 
repair  hither,  I must  not  only  keep  myself  free  from 
every  evil,  but  also  honor  Thee  by  holy  acts  of  virtue. 

6.  Of  how  great  a wrath  of  Thy  indignation,  of 
how  great  a punishment  of  Thy  justice  should  I be 
deserving,  if,  in  Thy  presence,  I should  busy  my 
heart  with  unlawful  thoughts  or  evil  affections;  if 
thus  I dared  here  to  appear  unholy  among  angelic 
Spirits,  and  insult  Thee  to  Thy  face  with  so  great 
a disrespect,  so  offensive  to  Thy  Heart! 

O did  I but  follow  faith,  I should  doubtless 
neither  suffer  my  thoughts  to  stray,  nor  my  affec- 
tions to  be  poured  out  elsewhere,  nor  myself  to  be 


624 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


turned  in  any-wise  away  from  Thee,  as  if  Thou,  O 
supreme  bliss  of  all!  wert  not  sufficient  for  me,  and 
worthy  of  my  attention1. 

O Lord  God!  I tremble  when  I think  on  the 
greatness  of  the  irreverence  whereof  I render  my- 
self guilty,  when  I appear  to  honor  Thee  with  my 
lips,  whilst  my  heart  is  far  away  from  Thee,  en- 
gaged with  things  which  it  either  inordinately  loves 
or  fears,  or  with  objects  of  dissipation  which  it 
cares  not  to  remove. 

Alas!  my  very  exterior  proves  by  how  great  a 
distraction  my  heart  is  dissipated;  in  how  great  a 
desolateness  it  languishes,  even  when  here  before 
Thee  I partake  of  a heavenly  fellowship. 

7.  And  yet,  my  outward  deference  ought  not  to 
be  less  than  the  inward;  since  Thou  requirest 
equally  the  homage  of  the  body  and  of  the  soul  in 
this  most  august  Sacrament,  where  Thou,  my  God, 
art  Thyself  present  with  Body  and  Soul. 

It  is  befitting,  therefore,  that  the  greatest  mod- 
esty do  here  appear,  and  be  made  known  to  all 
men,  because  Thou,  O Lord,  art  so  near. 

Here  no  idle  word  should  find  a place:  no  in- 
quisitive, no  wandering  look;  no  position,  no  mo- 
tion of  the  body  in  the  least  disrespectful. 

O Jesus,  life  and  sweetness  of  my  soul!  although 
there  is  naught  on  earth  which  delights  me  more 
than  the  most  Holy  Sacrament  of  the  love  of  Thy 
Heart,  there  is,  at  the  same  time,  naught  that  fills 
me  more  with  dread. 

For,  if  I use  it  rightly  and  reverently,  I find  in 
it  all  things  desirable.  If,  on  the  contrary,  I use  it 
wrongfully  and  irreverently,  what  dreadful  evils  do 
I draw  upon  myself! 


CHAPTER  XVI. 


625 

8.  But,  O if  I loved  Thee  sufficiently,  if  my 
heart  were  inflamed  with  that  divine  fire  with 
which  Thy  Heart  is  here  burning,  there  would  be 
no  need  of  such  an  amount  of  reasons  to  induce  me 
to  exhibit  to  Thee  a due  regard. 

For,  then  I would  not  only  most  studiously  avoid 
every  irreverence,  but  I would  demean  myself  be- 
fore Thee  in  that  manner  which  love  alone  under- 
stands; with  that  delicate  attentiveness  which  the 
purity  alone  of  love  can  teach. 

Then,  how  sweet  would  it  be  for  me  to  spend  in 
Thy  presence  a happy  and  joyous  time,  rapt  in  love 
of  Thee,  forgetful  of  all  beside; 

Then,  how  eagerly  would  I desire  to  visit  Thee 
in  Thy  most  lovely  Tabernacle,  and  prove  to  Thee 
my  love. 

Then,  with  how  holy  and  delicious  a hunger  and 
thirst  would  I be  urged  forward,  to  resort  frequently 
to  the  heavenly  banquet,  which  Thou  hast  here  pre- 
pared with  so  great  a sweetness; 

9.  Grant  me,  therefore,  most  loving  and  amiable 
Jesus;  grant  me  love  for  Thee;  a love  which  may 
soften  and  expand  my  hard  heart,  and  fill  it  with 
the  unction  of  piety. 

Inflame  me  wholly  with  that  love,  wherewith  the 
Angelic  Spirits,  and  so  many  pure  souls,  are  here 
burning  in  Thy  presence,  and  whereby  they  honor 
Thee  so  perfectly. 

O Lord!  have  pity  on  me,  and  forgive  me  every 
negligence  in  Thy  regard ; every  distraction  of 
mind,  every  dissipation  of  heart,  whatsoever,  in  fine, 
I have  done  contrary  to  that  reverence  which  is 
due  to  Thee: 

And  kindly  grant  that,  as  Thy  favors  to  me  are 


626 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK 


ever  increasing,  and  being  heaped  up,  so  also  my 
love  for  Thee  may  be  augmented  and  redoubled. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 

THAT  WE  SHOULD  ENDEAVOR  BY  EVERY  MEANS  TO 

ATONE  FOR  THE  INSULTS  WHICH  ARE  OFFERED 

TO  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE 

SACRAMENT  OF  HIS  LOVE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  they  repaid 
Me  evil  for  good,  and  returned  Me  hatred  for  My 
love. 

Whatever  is  best  and  most  precious  in  heaven, 
whatever  on  earth  is  most  useful  and  wholesome  to 
men,  whatever  is  most  sacred  and  consoling  in  Re- 
ligion, I placed,  by  the  disinterested  generosity  of 
My  Heart,  by  the  most  pure  love,  in  this  Sacra- 
ment. 

Are  not  these  things  so  great,  My  Child,  that  if 
the  hearts  of  all  should  be  consumed  with  love;  if 
the  tongues  of  all  mortals  should  together  be  em- 
ployed to  return  just  thanks;  if  the  whole  world 
should  sacrifice  itself  as  a victim  of  praise;  all  this 
should  be  still  so  far  from  what  is  deserved,  as 
things  divine  surpass  those  which  are  human,  as 
the  finite  is  below  the  infinite? 

Heaven  itself  stands  astounded  at  the  boundless 
grandeur  of  this  gift:  and  the  Angelic  Spirits  ex- 
claim, in  admiration:  Behold  our  God!  behold  the 
marvels  He  has  wrought  upon  earth! 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


627 


Thinkest  thou,  then,  that,  on  earth,  there  can  be 
found  a person,  who  is  insensible  or  indifferent  to 
this  gift  of  gifts? 

And  yet,  My  Child,  there  are  souls  without  feeh 
ing,  without  affection,  thankless  creatures  that,  so 
far  from  loving  Me,  the  generous  donor  of  a treas- 
ure of  such  blessings;  on  the  contrary,  do  use 
these  very  blessings  to  load  My  Heart  with  bitter 
insults. 

2.  Behold!  very  many  run  whithersoever  their 
interest  or  passion  impels  them;  but,  in  order  to 
visit  Me,  they  are  unwilling  to  leave  their  house, 
or  to  turn  ever  so  little  aside  from  their  way. 

So  little  do  they  esteem  My  gifts,  so  cold- 
hearted  do  they  feel  toward  Me,  that  they  are  un- 
willing to  undergo  the  least  inconvenience  of  nature 
to  come  hither,  to  ask  for  the  good  things  I have 
prepared,  or  to  testify  their  love  for  Me,  who,  for 
love  of  them,  came  down  from  heaven  through 
every  inconvenience,  and  abide  here  for  their  sake. 

To  how  many  can  I truly  say:  So  long  a time 
have  I been  with  you,  and  ve  have  not  known 
Me! 

To  them  I am  as  a stranger;  and,  as  an  alien, 
I am  neglected  by  them.  So  little  do  they  think 
of  Me:  so  little  do  they  care  for  Me! 

3.  And  even  among  them  that  frequently  resort 
to  My  Tabernacle,  how  many  there  are  who  do  in- 
deed come,  but  place  an  abomination  in  the  holy 
place!  For,  how  many  present  themselves  before 
My  eyes,  in  My  sacred  temple  as  idols,  to  lead  men 
astray  from  devotional  love  for  Me,  and  to  turn 
away  their  mind  and  attention  toward  themselves! 

Not  a few  resolve  in  their  mind  things  execrable. 


628 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


cherish  in  their  heart  things  detestable;  and,  by 
their  will,  commit  sins  in  My  very  sight,  thus 
shamefully  insulting  Me. 

How  many,  also,  who  by  look,  or  gesture,  or  by 
their  very  dress  sadden  the  Angels,  and  exasperate 
Me! 

How  many  there  are  who  wTould  rightly  blush,  to 
demean  themselves  toward  a mortal  with  so  much 
insolence,  so  much  irreverence,  as  they  here  ex- 
hibit toward  Me! 

4.  Nowhere,  My  Child,  are  more  cruel  affronts 
heaped  upon  Me  than  in  this  divine  mystery. 
Where  abounds  the  goodness  of  My  Heart,  there 
also  abounds  the  wickedness  of  men. 

For,  how  many  heretics  do  impiously  deny  Me! 
how  many  unbelievers  do  horribly  blaspheme  Me, 
whom  they  know  not! 

But,  My  Child,  although  these  things  are  most 
grievous,  they  are,  however,  less  painful  to  My 
Heart  than  the  horrifying  profanations  of  them 
that  receive  Me  sacrilegiously  through  Communion. 

O how  great  an  insult!  how  abominable  an  at- 
tempt, when  men,  even  the  dispensers  of  My  mys- 
teries, approach  Me,  whilst  they  possess  the  devil 
within  themselves;  and,  after  sacrilegiously  receiv- 
ing Me,  cast  Me,  their  God,  at  the  feet  of  Satan, 
who  sits  enthroned  in  their  heart. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — How  long,  O 
Lord  God,  how  long  shall  sinners  do  such  things 
with  impunity?  Arise,  O Thou  All-powerful  One, 
scatter  those  monsters ! place  the  sacrilegious 
wretches  like  stubble  before  the  face  of  the  raging 
fire:  for  this  they  have  deserved. 

Th*  voice  0)  Jesus — Not  so,  My  Child,  not  so  as 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


629 


yet,  although  they  deserve,  even  at  present,  the  ex- 
treme of  punishment:  I wish  to  show  that  the 
love  of  My  Heart  is  greater  than  the  malice  of  the 
heart  of  men. 

My  mind,  therefore,  is  disposed  to  give  them 
still  grace,  that  they  may  yet  be  able  to  save  them- 
selves. For  if,  co-operating  with  the  same,  they 
reform,  it  will  be  the  triumph,  the  joy,  the  exulta- 
tion of  My  Heart,  at  the  salvation  of  these  souls, 
for  which  I did  not  hesitate  to  lay  down  My  life. 

And  if  they  are  unwilling  to  be  converted,  and 
to  love  Me  in  return,  I have  time  sufficient  to  satisfy 
My  justice,  since  everlasting  ages  are  Mine. 

Meanwhile,  Child,  lo!  I will  continue  to  bear 
those  insults  for  love  of  thee,  for  the  love  of  the 
Elect;  whom  I love  more  than  I am  offended  by 
sinners,  and  for  whom  I gladly  continue  to  reside 
here. 

6.  Thou,  My  Child,  wilt  not  be  insensible,  I 
trust,  to  this  singular  excess  of  love,  by  which  My 
Heart,  during  so  many  ages,  endures  such  indigni- 
ties from  the  wicked,  in  order  that  It  may  bestow 
upon  thee  all  the  good  things  which  It  has  stored 
up  in  this  Sacrament. 

If  thou  lovest  Me,  thou  wilt  cheerfully  do  what- 
soever thou  canst  to  make  amends  for  sacrifices  so 
numerous  and  so  great,  which  My  Heart  here 
makes;  and  to  repair  My  honor,  which  is  here  in- 
jured in  so  many  unworthy  ways. 

Indeed,  it  is  one  of  the  chief  ends  of  the  devo- 
tion to  My  Heart,  to  atone,  so  far  as  possible,  for 
the  insults  which  My  Heart  receives  from  every 
side  in  this  most  holy  Sacrament. 

Do  not  believe  thyself  a true  Disciple  of  My 


630 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Heart,  if  thou  dost  not  burn  with  zeal  for  Its 
honor. 

7.  Here,  then,  before  My  Tabernacle,  do  thou 
frequently  pour  forth  the  ardent  affections  of  thy 
heart, — affections  of  thankfulness,  of  generosity, 
of  self-offering,  of  manifold  love,  whereby  My 
Heart  may  be  comforted. 

Let  thy  devotion  be  fervent,  when  here  thou 
prayest,  or  worshipest,  or  busiest  thyself  in  any 
manner;  so  that,  as  much  as  thou  canst,  thou  make 
up  for  the  indifference  of  the  lukewarm,  and  awake 
in  them  an  incentive  to  shake  off  their  sluggish- 
ness. 

Exhibit  everywhere  a sincere,  not  a fictitious 
veneration  for  the  most  Blessed  Sacrament,  that 
thou  mayst  in  some  sort  make  amends  to  My  honor; 
and,  whilst  edifying  others,  induce  them  to  rever- 
ence Me,  and  thus  lighten  the  burden  laid  upon  My 
Heart. 

Frequently  offer  up  thy  good  works,  thy  suffer- 
ings, and  all  the  meritorious  deeds  which  are  per- 
formed in  the  Church  throughout  the  world,  to 
honor  Me  in  the  holy  Eucharist. 

For  the  same  end  offer  up  the  virtues  and  merits 
of  all  the  Angels  and  Saints:  all  the  praise,  and 
honor,  and  whatsoever  else  is  done  in  heaven. 

As  often  as  thou  hearest  or  celebratest  Mass,  or 
receivest  holy  Communion,  among  others,  have 
this  intention,  to  atone,  by  this  holy  action,  for  the 
insults,  which  at  any  time  have  here  been  offered, 
by  thyself  or  by  others,  to  My  Heart. 

Nay  more,  My  Child,  imitating  My  Heart,  pray 
for  those  who  behave  so  unworthily  towards  Me; 
that  the  patience  of  My  Heart  in  waiting  for  them. 


CHAPTER  XVII. 


63 1 

and  Its  readiness  in  pardoning  them,  when  return- 
ing, may  triumph,  to  Its  own  great  joy,  and  to 
their  everlasting  happiness. 

Lastly,  whether  interiorly  or  exteriorly,  endeavor 
to  do  everything  thou  art  able,  that,  insults  being 
set  aside,  all  may  show  Me  honor  and  love,  in  this 
holy  Sacrament. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O most  sweet  Je- 
sus! how  greatly  didst  Thou  honor  us!  how  much 
didst  Thou  love  us!  Lo!  for  love  of  us  Thou 
earnest  down  from  heaven  upon  earth:  and,  to  lead 
us  from  earth  to  heaven,  Thou  didst  not  cease  to 
labor  and  suffer. 

Thou  didst  sacrifice  all  Thy  interests,  and  shed 
even  Thy  blood,  to  redeem  us  when  dead:  Thou 
didst  suffer  death  to  give  us  life:  Thou  wast  willing 
that  Thy  Heart,  wounded  by  love,  should  remain 
open,  that  Thou  mightst  thence  bestow  upon  us  all 
blessings:  Thou  didst  condescend  to  be  wholly  ours, 
always  and  everywhere. 

In  Thy  mortal  life,  Thou  gavest  Thyself  to  us  as 
the  price  of  salvation,  the  fountain  of  life,  the  pat- 
tern of  perfection,  the  way  and  guide  to  heaven. 

In  Thy  Sacramental  life,  Thou  givest  Thyselt 
over  and  above  to  us  as  the  food  of  life,  the  sancti- 
fication of  soul  and  body,  the  solace  of  our  pil- 
grimage, the  abundance  of  all  things  good. 

In  Thy  glorious  life  itself,  Thou  givest  Thyself 
to  us  as  the  Advocate  with  the  Father,  as  the  giver 
of  the  Spirit  the  Comforter,  as  an  everlasting 
reward. 

What  more,  O most  loving  Jesus!  what  more 
could  Thy  Heart  invent,  what  more  could  It  do, 
which  It  did  not  invent  and  accomplish  for  us? 


6 32 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


How  great  a thankfulness,  then,  how  great  a love, 
how  great  a fidelity  hadst  Thou  a right  to  expect! 

But  alas!  Lord,  alas!  instead  of  gratitude,  of  love, 
of  fidelity,  oh!  behold,  affronts,  profanations,  sac- 
rileges, and  every  most  cruel  misdeed! 

Was  it  this,  O good  Jesus!  was  it  this, — which 
moves  the  Angels  themselves  to  shed  tears, — was  it 
this  Thou  hadst  to  expect  from  us  for  all  Thou 
didst  do,  and  endure,  and  bestow,  and  prepare 
for  us. 

9.  Would,  O Lord,  that,  with  my  blood,  I could 
wash  away  things  so  horrible!  Would  that  I were 
able,  at  the  cost  of  my  own  honor  and  life,  to  atone 
for  indignities  so  great,  insults  so  cruel! 

But,  since  I can  only  desire  these  things:  I of- 
fer to  Thee,  as  a compensation  for  all  the  injuries 
ever  done  to  Thy  Heart,  as  an  atonement  for  Thy 
honor, — in  whatsoever  manner  it  may  have  been 
wounded  by  myself  and  others, — all  my  thoughts, 
words,  actions,  all  that  I may  do  or  suffer. 

For  the  same  end,  I offer  to  Thee  my  whole  self, 
to  undergo  all  the  humiliations,  to  suffer  all  the 
insults,  to  endure  whatsoever  Thy  divine  good 
pleasure  may  will. 

I offer  to  Thee,  also,  all  the  pious  affections,  the 
holy  desires,  the  meritorious  works  of  all  the  faith- 
ful who  are  pleasing  to  Thee,  throughout  the 
world:  all  the  Sacrifices  of  the  Mass,  the  holy 
Communions,  in  short,  whatsoever  is  done  for  Thee 
in  the  whole  Church. 

I,  likewise,  offer  to  Thee  the  praises,  and  thanks- 
givings, and  blessings,  and  all  the  testimonials 
of  love  of  all  the  heavenly  Spirits,  and  of  the 
Saints  who  reign  in  heaven. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


633 


Accept,  I beseech  Thee,  O most  kind  Jesus, 
these  offerings  in  union  with  the  merits  of  Thy 
most  Sacred  Heart:  receive  them  through  the  Im- 
maculate Heart  of  Thy  Virgin  Mother,  through 
which  I dare  to  present  all  this  to  Thee. 

Through  that  innocent  Heart:  guilty  as  I am,  I 
yet  do  confidingly  draw  near  to  Thy  Heart;  and 
implore  mercy  and  grace  for  myself  and  for  all 
other  miserable  sinners. 

Spare,  O Lord,  spare  us  sinners:  forgive  the 
evils  we  have  done:  forget  the  insults  we  have  of- 
fered to  Thy  Heart. 

Grant  that,  by  purity  of  life,  we  may  repair  the 
past;  that,  by  the  fervor  of  our  affections,  we  may 
return  Thy  love;  and,  that,  by  a persevering  fidel- 
ity, we  may  delight  Thy  Heart. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 

THAT  WE  MUST  PROVE  OURSELVES  BEFORE  WE 
APPROACH  THE  HOLY  SACRAMENT  OF  THE  EU- 
CHARIST. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  let  a man 
prove  himself,  and  so  let  him  eat  of  that  Bread, 
and  drink  of  the  Cup.  For  he  that  eats  and  drinks 
unworthily,  eats  and  drinks  judgment  to  himself, 
not  discerning  the  Body  of  his  Lord. 

No  small  punishment  threatens  him,  that  re- 
ceives the  Lord  his  God  unworthily.  Behold!  My 
Blood  shall  be  upon  him,  and  shall  cause  a curse 
to  fall  upon  his  body  and  soul. 


634 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Consider*  Child,  how  indignant  thou  art  at  the 
conduct  of  Judas,  the  betrayer.  But,  he  surpasses 
in  audaciousness,  ingratitude,  and  wickedness  this 
faithless  Disciple,  who, — not  restrained  by  the  most 
lamentable  fate  of  Judas,  and  abusing  My  forewarn- 
ings, as  well  as  My  favors, — whilst  at  this  most  sa- 
cred banquet  he  reclines  on  My  very  Heart, 
betrays  Me  by  a sacrilegious  Communion. 

How  dreadful,  then,  how  terrible  the  expectation 
of  judgment!  how  fearful  a punishment  awaits  him 
who  betrays,  who  persecutes  Me  by  so  cruel  a baseness! 

If  they,  who  misused  the  ancient  types  of  this 
divine  Sacrament,  were  punished  so  severely:  if  the 
sons  of  Heli,  because  they  had  behaved  in  an  unbe- 
coming manner  in  the  Sanctuary  of  old;  if  Oza, 
because  he  had  irreverently  touched  the  Ark  of  the 
Covenant;  if  Balthassar,  because  he  had  used  the 
sacred  vessels  for  an  unholy  purpose;  if  all  these, 
in  punishment  of  their  crimes,  were  overtaken  by 
death,  what  does  that  sacrilegious  wretch  deserve, 
who,  so  far  as  in  him  lies,  tramples  under  foot  and 
spurns  God  Himself,  his  Creator  and  Saviour? 

Would  not  the  earth  open  and  swallow  him  alive, 
did  not  My  Heart  prevent  it,  in  order  that  It  may 
still  offer  him  a chance  of  salvation? 

O crime!  O enormity!  how  horrible  it  is,  for  one 
guilty  of  so  great  an  impiety,  to  fall  into  the  hands 
of  an  Almighty  God! 

2.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Lord!  Lord!  I 
shudder  with  horror  when  I reflect  on  the  heinous- 
ness of  such  an  abominable  crime! 

Prostrate  in  the  dust  before  Thee,  I beg  and  be- 
seech Thee:  preserve  me  from  an  unworthy  Com- 
munion of  Thv  Body  and  Blood. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


635 


By  Thy  Heart  Itself,  I implore  Thee,  Lord  God, 
make  me  understand  what  it  is  to  eat  this  Bread 
and  drink  this  Cup  unworthily,  that  knowing  it,  I 
may  sedulously  be  on  my  guard,  lest  I draw  upon 
myself  a most  frightful  condemnation. 

The  voice  of  Jesus. — It  is,  My  Child,  to  receive 
the  holy  Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist,  whilst  the 
consciousness  of  a grievous  sin  burdens  him  that 
receives. 

Lest,  therefore,  he  take  so  great  a mystery  un- 
worthily, and  consequently  death  and  condemna- 
tion, let  a person  prove  his  conscience. 

And  this  proving  is  necessary,  so  that  no  one, 
self-conscious  of  a mortal  sin,  how  contrite  soever 
he  may  appear  to  himself,  should  approach  the 
holy  Eucharist,  without  previous  sacramental  Con- 
fession. 

3.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Forgive  me,  I be- 
seech Thee,  O Lord,  if  I appear  not  to  understand 
fully  what  is  said;  for  I am  dull  of  comprehension. 

Pardon  me,  also,  if  I ask  things  which  seem  less 
appropriate;  for  I am  uneasy  in  heart. 

Not  that  I am  not  willing  to  make  a greater  prep- 
aration for  so  great  a Sacrament  than  that  which 
is  required  not  to  receive  unworthily;  but  because 
the  enemy  of  my  salvation,  sometimes,  suggests 
that,  even  after  I have  done  what  I could,  I should 
be  guilty  of  the  Body  and  Blood  of  the  Lord,  were 
I to  approach  the  holy  Communion. 

Thus,  when  darkness  covers  my  interior,  and  the 
enemy  roars  in  the  obscurity,  so  that  I cannot 
clearly  discern  objects,  nor  distinctly  hear  Thy 
voice  within  me;  I either  approach  with  reluctance 
and  with  danger,  or,  deceived  by  the  wiles  of  the 


636 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


devil,  I abstain  from  the  best  remedy  for  all  my 
miseries. 

Show  me,  therefore,  I entreat  Thee,  what  signi- 
fies to  be  conscious  of  mortal  sin.  For,  this  being 
well  understood,  I shall  more  easily  avoid  the 
snares  of  the  devil,  and  guard  more  effectually 
against  an  unworthy  Communion. 

4.  The  voice  0}  Jesus. — My  Child,  he  is  self-con- 
scious of  mortal  sin  who  knows  in  his  heart  that 
he  is  in  a state  of  mortal  sin.  For  he  is  conscious 
of  a thing,  who  has  the  consciousness  of  it.  Now, 
consciousness  is  certain  knowledge. 

Knowledge,  however,  is  not  to  be  sought  in  the 
same  way  in  all  things,  but  in  every  matter  accord- 
ing to  its  own  manner:  absolute  in  matters  abso- 
lute, physical  in  things  physical,  moral  in  what  be- 
longs to  morality. 

Wherefore,  Child,  they  that  are  wont  to  sin  vol- 
untarily, if  they  doubt,  whether,  when  solicited  to 
a sin,  they  did  commit  that  sin,  are  morally  certain, 
from  what  commonly  happens  to  them,  that  they 
are  guilty  of  that  sin. 

On  the  contrary,  when  thou  strivest  sincerely  to 
cling  to  Me,  or  so  long  as  thou  art  habitually  in  dread 
of  being  deprived  of  divine  grace;  if  thou  know- 
est  not,  if  thou  hast  no  certain  knowledge,  that,  in 
grievous  matters,  thou  didst  voluntarily  consent  to 
the  temptations  of  the  enemy,  or  didst,  in  any  way, 
lose  the  state  of  grace;  if  thou  receivest  the  Sacra- 
ment, thou  dost  not  receive  it  unworthily. 

5.  Let  these  truths,  My  Child,  ever  console  thee, 
let  them  encourage,  let  them  guide  thee;  especially, 
when  serenity  does  not  reign  within — when  the 
noise  of  the  foe  fills  thy  heart. 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


637 


Thou  wilt,  however,  do  rightly,  if  thou  ever  mak- 
est  as  perfect  an  act  of  contrition  as  thou  art  able 
for  all,  even  thy  hidden  transgressions,  such  as  they 
are  in  the  sight  of  God;  that,  being  thus  better 
disposed,  thou  mayst,  amid  the  Angels,  approach 
the  divine  mystery. 

It  will,  likewise,  prove  useful,  if,  when  thou  art 
about  to  approach  the  sacred  table,  thou  provest 
thyself  even  in  slighter  sins;  and,  by  an  ardent 
love,  purifiest  thyself  from  them  and  all  inordinate 
affections;  so  that,  entering  with  a stainless  wed- 
ding-garment, thou  mayst  sit  down  with  Me  to  the 
heavenly  banquet. 

If  then,  Child,  thou  dost  not  consent  to  mortal 
sins,  although  thou  feelest  thyself  tempted  thereto; 
if  thou  dost  not  voluntarily  commit  venial  ones; 
if  thou  strugglest  to  go  against  nature  when  it  op- 
poses itself  to  the  divine  good  pleasure ; behold 
with  the  permission  of  the  director  of  thy  con- 
science, it  is  lawful  for  thee  to  approach  holy  Com- 
munion, whensoever  thou  art  willing. 

And,  although  this  purity  is  infinitely  below  that 
divine  purity,  which  is  received  in  the  most  Blessed 
Sacrament;  yet,  it  suffices  for  man,  in  order  to  fre- 
quent with  humble  confidence  and  affection  this 
sacred  and  sanctifying  mystery,  and  to  be  thereby 
more  perfectly  purified. 

For  this  divine  Sacrament  is  not  instituted  for 
creatures  that  are  by  nature  Angels,  who  cannot 
sin,  but  for  men  who  are  angels  by  desire,  and  are 
not  willing  to  sin;  so  that  by  it  they  may  attain  to 
the  perfection  of  purity  and  sanctity,  which  is 
rather  the  fruit  of  Communion  than  a preparation 
for  it. 


638 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


6.  It  belongs  peculiarly  to  the  demon,  to  turn 
away  from  frequent  Communicn  souls  that  are  suf- 
ficiently well-disposed;  and  every  one  among  men 
who  does  so,  whether  directly  or  indirectly,  imi- 
tates the  demon,  and  does  the  devil’s  work. 

Undoubtedly,  I require  reverence;  but  I desire 
love  more:  and  thou  wilt  show  the  one  and  the 
other  better  by  frequent  than  by  infrequent  Com- 
munion. 

I,  indeed,  do  not  desire,  My  Child,  that  thou 
shouldst  often  approach  holy  Communion,  and  at 
the  same  time  continue  to  sin,  although  only  ve- 
nially,  or  follow  the  ill-ordered  likings  or  dislikings 
of  nature;  but  this  I will,  that,  with  a fixed  will 
thou  be  determined  to  abstain  both  from  commit- 
ting even  the  least  sin,  and  from  following  the  in- 
ordinate inclinations  of  nature,  and  that  thou  fre- 
quently approach  thus  the  holy  Sacrament,  in  spite 
of  what  they  may  think  who,  in  this  matter,  defend 
the  part  of  the  evil  spirit. 

If,  in  consequence  of  this  determination,  thou  art 
wont  to  lead  a pure  life,  then,  Child,  even  if,  through 
frailty,  thou  fall  occasionally  into  some  defect,  do 
not  on  that  account  omit  thy  usual  Communion; 
but,  after  having  made  the  requisite  proving,  come 
to  it  with  a more  intense  preparation. 

Consider,  Child,  and  remember,  how  greatly  My 
Heart  is  honored  and  delighted  by  a pious  and  holy 
Communion,  with  how  great  a joy  heaven  is  filled, 
with  how  much  comfort  the  faithful  departed  are 
helped,  with  how  many  gifts  and  graces  a well- 
disposed  soul  is  replenished,  to  secure  her  salvation 
the  better,  and  to  attain  to  sanctity. 

Are  all  these  results  not  such  that  they  do  not 


CHAPTER  XVIII. 


639 


only  counterbalance,  but  infinitely  outweigh,  the 
labor  or  effort  required  for  the  proving  and  cleans- 
ing of  thyself  ? 

7.  There  is  no  one  who  cannot  in  this  manner 
prove  himself,  cleanse  himself,  in  fine,  dispose  him- 
self ; since  to  all  grace  is  given  for  this  pur- 
pose. 

Nor  can  any  one  attribute  the  lack  of  disposition 
to  nature,  or  to  his  condition  in  life;  since  neither 
nature  nor  condition  in  life,  but  an  ill-regulated 
will,  or  carelessness,  renders  the  soul  indisposed. 

Excite  thy  fervor,  My  Child,  stir  up  thy  heart 
for  a matter  of  such  importance,  that,  in  this  life, 
there  can  be  naught  greater,  naught  more  useful  for 
thee. 

Here  every  one  receives  the  reward  of  the  labor 
which  he  has  employed  in  preparation,  and,  in  pro- 
portion as  he  draws  nigh  purified  and  disposed,  he 
departs  laden  with  graces  and  favors. 

8.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Thanks  to  Thee, 
most  kind  Jesus,  for  that,  in  so  weighty  a matter, 
Thou  instructest  me  so  clearly,  so  distinctly;  and, 
with  so  great  a benignity  of  Heart,  invitest  and 
presses!  me,  although  so  poor  and  wretched,  to  a 
frequent  participation  of  the  divine  banquet. 

Henceforth,  I will  come  with  more  security  and 
cheerfulness  to  this  sacred  Table;  since  I know, 
how  I must  prove  and  dispose  myself,  as  well  to  be 
acceptable  to  Thee,  as  to  partake  with  fruit  of  this 
heavenly  food. 

I ardently  desire,  Thou  knowest  it,  O Lord,  and 
I most  firmly  resolve,  to  live  free  from  every  volun- 
tary sin  whatsoever,  and  from  every  inordinate 
affection;  that,  without  hindrance,  I may,  as  fre- 


640  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 

quently  as  possible,  receive  Thee  in  holy  Com- 
munion. 

Whatsoever  may  be  wanting  to  me,  poor  and  des- 
titute as  I am,  do  Thou,  I beseech  Thee,  good  and 
merciful  Jesus,  supply  from  the  treasury  of  Thy 
Heart:  clothe  me  with  the  white  robe  of  innocence; 
adorn  me  with  the  beauty  of  faith,  hope,  charity, 
and  of  all  virtues,  that  I may  deserve  to  appear 
among  the  holy  Angels,  and  banquet  with  Thee, 
unto  Thy  joy  and  honor,  and  my  consolation  and 
sanctification. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 

HOW  WE  OUGHT  TO  PREPARE  OURSELVES  FOR  HOLY 
COMMUNION. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  My  time  is 
near  at  hand;  do  thou  await  Me:  behold!  I will 
come,  and  will  enter  with  thee,  and  I will  make  My 
abode  with  thee. 

And  when  I come,  I shall  not  be  alone,  but  many 
Angels  with  Me;  nor  shall  I come  with  empty 
hands,  but  bring  along  riches,  and  honors,  and  hap- 
piness, that  I may  enrich  and  ennoble  thee;  that  I 
may  make  thee  contented  and  blissful. 

Prepare,  therefore,  a place  for  Me,  in  which  there 
is  not  only  no  stain,  but  wherein  also  everything  is 
becomingly  adorned. 

If  thou  considerest  well,  whom  thou  art  about  to 
receive,  thou  wilt,  indeed,  acknowledge  that,  even 
if  thou  didst  possess  the  innocence  of  Angels,  thou 
oughtest  still  to  prepare  thyself  with  the  utmost  care. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


641 

For,  with  how  great  a purity,  how  great  a holi- 
ness should  his  body  and  soul  be  glittering  and 
adorned,  who  does  not  merely  approach  and  em- 
brace purity  itself,  sanctity  itself;  but  receives  the 
same,  is  incorporated  with  the  same! 

Do,  then,  whatsoever  thou  canst,  to  prepare  thy- 
self in  body  and  soul  for  this  grand  work. 

2.  Grand,  indeed,  is  this  work:  for  thou  pre- 
parest  a dwelling-place  not  for  a superior  or  a 
prince,  but  for  thy  Saviour- God:  neither  dost  thou 
labor  for  perishable  things,  but  for  everlasting  dos- 
sessions. 

Wherefore,  some  time  before  the  day  previous  to 
My  coming,  begin  to  dispose  and  prepare  thyself 
remotely,  according  to  thy  condition,  by  some  acts 
of  self-denial  and  other  virtues. 

Direct  thy  good  works,  yea,  even  those  which  are 
indifferent,  thy  words,  and  thoughts  also,  to  this 
object;  and  offer  them  all,  that  they  may  be  as  so 
many  ornaments,  pleasing  in  My  sight,  of  the  place 
which  thou  art  exerting  thyself  to  prepare  for 
Me. 

3.  Excite  and  cherish  a living  desire  of  the  hap- 
piness wThich  thou  art  about  to  enjoy  in  the  holy 
Communion.  This  will  stir  up  and  animate  all  the 
rest. 

And  why  shouldst  thou  not  be  goaded  on  by 
this  desire,  if  thou  considerest  in  how  manifold 
ways  thou  standest  in  need  of  Me?  Why  shouldst 
thou  not  experience  an  ardent  longing,  if  thou 
givest  heed  to  the  great  blessings  which  thou  art 
about  to  receive?  Why,  in  fine,  shouldst  thou  not 
be  wholly  inflamed,  if  thou  meditatest,  how  eagerly 
My  Heart  desires  to  bestow  Itself  upon  thee? 


642 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


In  correspondence  with  this  desire  of  My  Heart 
let  thy  heart,  in  return,  long  for  Me;  and  let  it, 
from  time  to  time,  renew  and  inflame  its  eagerness 
to  be  dissolved  by  love,  and  be  with  Me. 

Now  address  the  Angels:  Have  ye  seen  whom 
my  soul  loves?  I adjure  you  that  ye  tell  Him 
that  I languish  with  love. 

Then  call  upon  the  Saints:  I entreat  you,  Breth- 
ren, by  our  Lord  and  by  His  Heart,  assist  me  with 
your  prayers. 

Again,  express  to  Me  thy  longing  desire:  O my 
Beloved!  my  chosen  one  among  all  others,  show 
me  where  Thou  feedest  among  the  lilies.  Who  will 
grant  me  that  I may  find  Thee,  that  I may  em- 
brace Thee,  that  I may  lead  Thee  into  the  dwelling 
of  my  heart!  Bid,  O bid  me  experience  how  good 
Thou  ait  to  them  that  seek  Thee;  how  sweet  to 
them  that  find,  how  ineffable  to  them  that  possess 
Thee!  Come,  Lord,  and  do  not  delay. 

With  these,  and  other  affections  suited  to  the 
state  of  thy  soul,  entertain  thy  fervor;  excite  a 
spiritual  hunger  after  the  most  wholesome  Sacra- 
ment of  the  Eucharist,  which  demands  a hungry 
soul,  and  fills  and  satiates  the  hungry  soul  with 
good  things. 

4.  Make,  besides,  a pure  and  holy  intention,  and 
cause  the  same  to  bear  on  the  various  ends,  par- 
ticular as  well  as  general,  which  thou  hast  proposed 
to  thyself. 

Beware,  My  Child,  lest  thou  approach  the  holy 
Communion  for  form’s  sake,  or  through  custom,  as 
it  were  without  any  purpose:  nor  be  thou  less  on 
thy  guard,  lest  thou  go  to  it  in  order  that  thou 
mayst  appear  devout,  or,  on  the  contrary,  that  thou 


CHAPTER  XIX.  643 

mayst  avoid  reproach;  or,  lastly,  that  thou  mayst 
experience  sensible  consolation. 

Proceed  with  straightforwardness,  follow  after 
things  pure  and  holy,  according  to  the  divine  good 
pleasure,  from  which  thou  oughtest  for  no  consid- 
eration whatsoever  to  turn  aside.  For,  whatsoever 
is  foreign  thereto,  is  of  no  value,  how  good  soever 
it  may  appear. 

Thus  it  will  happen,  that,  when  about  to  ap- 
proach the  holy  Sacrament,  after  a careful  prepara- 
tion, if  thou  dost  not  feel,  according  to  thy  desire, 
the  fervor  and  relish  of  devotion,  thou  wilt  bear  it 
in  peace  and  with  profit,  resigned  to  My  divine 
Will,  which  thou  wilt  deem  the  greatest  of  all  con- 
solations. 

And  if  thou  dost  experience  the  ardor  or  sweet- 
ness of  devotion,  thou  wilt  receive  it  with  a humble 
and  grateful  mind,  and  relish  it  in  thy  innermost 
heart;  knowing  that  it  is  not  an  effect  of  thy  own 
seeking,  but  a gift  of  the  goodness  of  My  Heart. 

5.  When  the  time  is  now  near  at  hand,  that  I am 
about  to  come,  think  that  thou  hearest  thy  Guar- 
dian Angel,  who  says  to  thee:  Behold,  the  Bride- 
groom comes:  go  thou  forth  to  meet  Him. 

Arise  thou  quickly,  and,  having  with  thee  thy 
lamp  lighted  with  sanctifying  grace,  hasten  to 
My  holy  Tabernacle,  watch  there,  and  make  the 
immediate  preparation  for  My  coming. 

Let  thy  heart  be  dilated,  let  all  the  powers  of  thy 
soul  exult:  let  the  present  felicity  replenish  thee 
wholly  inwardly  and  outwardly. 

Imagine  that  now  thou  art  no  longer  on  earth, 
but  amidst  the  Angels,  who  invisibly  surround 
1 Lee- 


644 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


6.  And  whilst  I tarry  in  the  Tabernacle,  adore 
Me  with  a lively  faith,  cherish  a great  hope,  renew 
thy  love  for  thy  neighbor.  Apply  thyself  dili- 
gently to  this:  insist  on  this  with  much  affection. 

Then,  occupy  thyself  with  acts  of  those  virtues 
which  are  peculiarly  pleasing  to  My  Heart,  and 
which  I Myself  practiced  in  a marvelous  manner 
in  the  Supper-room,  before  I instituted  this  Sacra- 
ment; thus  giving  thee  an  example,  that  as  I did 
in  My  Heart,  so  thou  shouldst  also  do  before  holy 
Communion. 

For,  how  deeply  did  I there  humble  Myself,  when 
I cast  Myself  at  My  Disciples’  feet,  and  washed  and 
wiped  them! 

Taught  by  such  an  example,  humble  thyself,  as 
much  as  thou  art  able,  with  thy  whole  heart,  with 
thy  whole  mind,  with  all  thy  strength. 

And,  when  thou  hast  done  all  thou  oughtest  and 
canst,  acknowledge  that  thou  art  unworthy  to  re- 
ceive Me,  to  enter  into  divine  companionship  with 
Me. 

What  more  do  I ask  than  a soul  truly  humble, 
in  which  My  Soul  finds  its  delight,  upon  which  My 
Heart  may  pour  out  the  abundance  of  Its  graces, 
and  which  My  pure  love  may  pervade,  ravish, 
transform  ? 

By  love,  My  Child,  by  love  was  this  most  de- 
lightful Sacrament  instituted:  by  love  it  must  be 
received. 

As  the  love  of  My  Heart  in  this  mystery  is  ex- 
ceeding, and  pours  itself  out  without  measure, 
without  restriction:  so,  Child,  when  thou  becom- 
est  a partaker  of  the  same,  give  thyself  wholly  up, 
without  limit,  without  terms,  to  divine  love. 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


645 


This  living  love,  this  pure  affection,  this  entire 
surrendering  of  thyself,  is  the  highest  preparation 
for  holy  Communion;  because  it  is  the  nearest  dis- 
position to  the  divine  union. 

Here,  therefore,  do  thou  linger:  here  act  with 
thy  whole  heart;  ask,  give,  according  as  the  Spirit 
of  grace  will  interiorly  teach  or  direct  thee. 

7.  If  thou  lovest  Me  purely,  My  Child,  thou 
wilt  perceive  that  it  is  not  in  thy  power  to  love 
Me  sufficiently:  and  thou  wilt  feel,  that  whatsoever 
thou  dost  or  art  able  to  do,  is  as  nothing  compared 
to  what  thou  seest  is  befitting  to  receive  Me  in  thy 
heart. 

Wherefore,  be  not  satisfied  with  those  adornings 
of  virtue  which  thou  thyself  makest  ready  or  pos- 
sesses!; but  borrow  from  the  Angels,  the  Saints, 
and  all  the  good,  whatsoever  ornaments  they  have, 
for  the  solemn  occasion,  when  thou  art  going  to  re- 
ceive Me. 

And  this  thou  canst  do,  My  Child,  if,  with  a sin- 
cere and  fervent  heart,  thou  desirest,  and  offerest  to 
Me,  for  thyself,  all  and  each  one  of  the  merits  and 
virtues  of  the  Angels  and  Saints;  that  by  these 
thou  mayst  be  pleasing  to  Me,  and  receive  Me  in 
a more  worthy  and  perfect  manner: 

If,  for  the  same  end,  thou  wishest  efficaciously 
to  receive  Me  with  that  purity,  faith,  hope,  char- 
ity: with  that  humility,  love,  and  holiness,  with 
which  all  the  just  and  virtuous,  yea,  My  Immacu- 
late Virgin-Mother  herself,  have  ever  received  Me 
in  the  Sacrament. 

Holy  affections  of  this  kind,  Child,  if  they  flow 
from  a pure  love  for  Me,  are  so  pleasing  to  Me  that 
I am  not  less  delighted  with  these  pure  and  burn- 


646 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


ing  desires,  than  if  thou  didst  thyself  possess  the 
things  desired. 

But,  My  Child,  seek  thou  after  still  better 
things:  perfect  the  adornment  of  thy  heart  with 
the  very  virtues  of  My  Heart. 

Finally,  when  I come  out  of  the  Tabernacle, 
when  thou  hearest  the  words:  Behold  the  Lamb 
of  God!  inwardly  and  outwardly  collected,  and 
full  of  reliance  upon  the  goodness  of  My  Heart, 
come  thou  amidst  the  Angels,  come  forth  to 
meet  Me. 

At  this  supreme  moment,  forget  in  some  manner 
thyself,  and,  intent  on  Me  alone,  receive  Me  with 
all  thy  affections,  and  enter  with  Me  into  thy 
heart. 

8.  Behold  here  the  manner,  My  Child,  in  which 
it  behooves  thee  to  prepare  thyself  for  holy  Com- 
munion. If,  as  is  befitting  in  a Disciple  of  My 
Heart,  thou  drawest  these  preparatory  acts  out  of 
thy  own  heart,  instead  of  reading  them  out  of  a book, 
thou  shalt  find  this  method,  as  it  were,  ever  new. 

For  thou  wilt  elicit  these  acts,  now  in  one  way, 
then  in  another;  according  as  thy  wants,  or  thy  de- 
votion, or  the  inward  unction  of  the  spirit  shall 
move  thee. 

But,  if  thou  canst  not  yet  act  interiorly  in  this 
manner,  make  use  of  a book;  but  use  it  so  as  to 
learn  by  degrees  to  converse  with  Me  in  thy  heart, 
and  to  be  able,  at  last,  to  make  thy  immediate 
preparation  without  a book. 

Retain,  therefore,  the  method,  but  vary  the  man- 
ner of  following  it;  shorten  one  act,  lengthen  an- 
other, according  to  the  present  state  of  thy  soul. 

Attend  not  to  the  form  of  the  acts,  but  to  the 


CHAPTER  XIX. 


647 


sincerity  of  the  affections:  bring  forward,  in  a sim- 
ple and  affectionate  manner,  the  sentiments  of  thy 
heart;  but,  above  all,  follow  the  spirit. 

Thus  it  will  come  to  pass,  My  Child,  that  thoi| 
wilt  prepare  thyself  every  time  in  some  new  way, 
adapted  to  thy  present  circumstances,  and  also 
with  new  fervor. 

For  this  it  will  help  thee  much,  to  dispose  thy- 
self, and  to  approach  holy  Communion  in  such  a 
manner,  as  if  it  were  to  be  the  last  of  thy  life. 

And,  in  truth,  Child,  thou  knowest  not  whether 
thy  next  Communion  shall  not  be  the  last:  but 
this  thou  knowest,  that  some  one  unknown  to  thee 
shall  be  the  last. 

It  is,  therefore,  a prudent  and  pious  counsel  to 
go  to  every  Communion  with  such  a disposition 
and  such  an  intention,  that,  if  it  be  the  last,  it  may 
be  thy  viaticum  unto  life  everlasting. 

9.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — How  great  and 
wonderful  is  the  goodness  of  Thy  Heart,  Lord 
Jesus,  that  Thou  dost  so  instruct  me,  and  teach  me 
a method  so  holy  and  so  sweet,  to  prepare  myself 
for  holy  Communion  1 

With  thankfulness  do  I embrace,  O Lord,  and 
faithfully  will  I follow  the  method  Thou  givest  me; 
which  I own, — as  it  is  so  simple  and  varied, — will 
be  easy  and  ever  new. 

But,  behold!  when  I shall  have  performed  what- 
soever I can,  to  prepare  myself  for  Thy  reception 
within  my  heart:  what  is  it  all  compared  with  Thy 
dignity  ? Or  what  ic  in  comparison  with  the 
bliss  which  I am  to  enjoy? 

In  that  most  delightful  hour,  when  Thou  wilt 
enter  into  my  innermost  heart,  what  shall  be  want 


648 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


ing  to  my  felicity?  Shall  I not  find  in  Thee  what- 
soever I can  desire? 

For  Thou,  O unfailing  fountain  of  all  good  I 
Thou  art  my  life  and  joy;  Thou  art  my  virtue  and 
sanctification,  Thou  my  wealth  and  honor,  Thou 
my  rest  and  sweetness,  and  every  bliss. 

O Jesus,  the  most  beloved  of  all  the  beloved! 
how  I long  for  Thee!  how  I stand  in  need  of 
Thee!  O when  wilt  Thou  come?  When  wilt 
Thou  admit  me,  miserable,  weak,  ignorant,  hungry, 
and  lonely! 

For  Thou,  O my  Jesus!  Thou  art  my  Saviour, 
my  Physician,  my  Leader;  Thou  art  my  Shepherd, 
my  Friend,  the  Beloved  of  my  soul. 

O Lamb  of  God!  Thou  who  takest  away  the 
sins  of  the  world,  I am  not  worthy  that  Thou 
shouldst  enter  beneath  my  roof;  but  have  pity  on 
me,  follow  the  goodness  of  Thy  Heart,  come. 

O my  Beloved,  O Thou  the  Bridegroom  of  my 
soul,  sweeter  than  honey  and  the  honey-comb ; 
fair  with  the  beauty  of  innocence,  blushing  with 
the  purity  of  love,  draw  me  to  Thee,  make  me 
like  to  Thee. 

Assist  me  to  prepare  myself,  in  holiness,  for  Thy 
coming:  grant  that  I may  keep  my  lamp  trimmed 
and  lighted;  that  I may  neither  sleep  nor  be  slug- 
gish; but  that  I may  so  watch  for  Thee  in  prayer 
that  I may  so  glow  with  piety,  that,  when  Thou 
comest  out,  I may  go  forth  to  meet  Thee  with  my 
soul  prepared,  and  be  found  worthy  to  enter  wTith 
Thee. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


649 


CHAPTER  XX. 

WHAT  WE  MUST  DO  AFTER  WE  HAVE  RECEIVED 
THE  BLESSED  SACRAMENT. 

i.  The  voice  0 f Jesus. — My  Child,  so  soon  as, 
through  holy  Communion,  thou  hast  received  Me, 
setting  aside  all  other  care,  be  thou  wholly  Mine, 
as  I am  thine. 

Behold!  then  surrounding  and  prostrate  Angels 
adore,  worship  with  reverential  awe,  marvel  in  as- 
tonishment, burn  with  love:  canst  thou,  in  the  midst 
of  all  this,  remain  indifferent? 

Everything  within  and  without  is  holiness  and 
devotedness,  peace  and  joy,  and  pouring  out  of 
favors  and  gifts,  sweetness  and  felicity.  Partake 
thou  of  the  same,  My  Child:  enjoy  all  these  bless- 
ings in  Me,  whom  thou  possessest. 

For  lo!  in  thy  innermost  heart  I Myself  am 
present,  thy  God,  thy  all.  Stay  with  Me,  My  Child, 
nor  leave  Me  alone,  by  wandering  away  with  thy 
mind,  thy  heart,  or  thy  senses. 

Having  closed  the  doors  of  every  avenue,  spend 
with  Me  that  time,  than  which  none  can  be  better, 
more  pleasant,  more  precious  for  thee. 

Blessed  art  thou,  if  thou  knowest  how  to  employ 
this  time,  on  which  the  principal  fruit  of  Com- 
munion, the  chief  progress  of  thy  soul,  depends! 

How  many  things  thou  hast  to  do  in  this  most 
joyous  hour ! how  much  to  pray  and  to  ask  for ! 
how  many  wants  to  make  known  to  Me!  how  much, 
also,  hast  thou  to  hear  from  Me!  how  many  sacri- 


650  THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 

frees  to  make:  how  much,  in  fine,  to  receive  for 
thyself  and  for  others! 

Wherefore,  do  not  neglect  the  time  of  my  vis- 
itation: but  have  a care,  that  not  the  least  part  of 
so  good  a gift  overpass  thee. 

2.  First,  then,  in  sincerity  of  heart,  return  the 
greatest  thanks  to  Me,  thy  Saviour-God,  for  that 
I have  deigned  so  mercifully  and  so  lovingly  to 
visit  thee. 

And,  since  thou  art  unable  to  return  worthy 
thanks  for  an  infinite  favor,  call  upon  the  Angels, 
who  are  attending  unseen:  invite  all  the  heavenly 
Spirits  and  the  Saints;  nay  more,  invite  everything 
that  breathes,  every  created  being,  great  and  small, 
that,  with  thee  and  for  thee,  they  may  praise  to- 
gether, and  extol  exceedingly  the  Beloved  of  thy 
soul,  so  loving  and  so  lovely. 

But,  because  all  these  are  below  the  greatness  of 
the  divine  well-doing,  offer  up  all  the  thanksgivings, 
the  praises,  the  acts  of  love,  which  the  Angels  and 
the  Saints,  and  all  the  just  have  ever  offered,  and 
will  offer  forever. 

Offer  all  this,  united  with  the  merits  of  My 
Heart;  which,  since  they  are  infinite,  are  equal  to 
the  infinite  gift. 

3.  Then,  make  acts  of  the  most  profound  adora- 
tion, freely  submitting  for  a holocaust,  all  the 
powers  of  thy  soul,  and  the  senses  of  thy  body,  as 
a homage  of  faith  due  to  Me. 

This  holocaust,  containing  as  it  does  the  great- 
est humility,  and  as  it  immolates  thee  wholly  to 
Me,  pleases  and  honors  Me  supremely. 

After  this,  what  is  there  fer  which  thou  mayst 
not  hope  from  My  Heart,  so  lavish  of  Its  gifts. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


6$ 

Hope  boldly,  My  Child:  form  great  and  strong 
acts  of  firm  hope.  Now  cherish  an  assured  hope 
that  whatsoever  thou  mayst  ask  will  be  given 
thee.  Again  cast  thyself  upon  My  Heart,  as  a 
child  upon  the  bosom  of  its  parent,  trusting  that 
here  thou  shalt  find  what  thou  desirest,  hoping 
that  here  thou  shalt  be  safe. 

And  will  not,  meanwhile,  thy  heart  be  binning 
in  thee,  when  so  great  a kindness  is  shown  thee,  so 
undue  a condescension,  so  disinterested  a love? 

Here  be  persevering,  My  Child:  give  thyself 
altogether  to  the  divine  love;  cease  not  to  make 
acts  of  love,  until  thou  hast  satisfied  thy  devotion, 
or  the  Spirit  of  grace  directs  thee  to  other  matters. 

For,  while  the  divine  love  is  working  in  thy 
heart,  and  exercises  its  power,  then  is  the  accept- 
able time, — if,  through  human  frailty  or  in  any 
other  manner,  thou  hast  done  things  which  may  be 
displeasing  to  My  Heart, — both  to  grieve,  out  of 
pure  love  of  God,  for  having  committed  them,  and 
to  resolve  to  commit  them  now  no  more. 

The  living  heat  of  divine  love,  if  thou  co-oper- 
atest  with  it,  pursues  sin  like  dry  stubble,  burns 
and  consumes  it. 

4.  Then,  that  thou  mayst  not  fall  again,  pray 
earnestly  to  be  cured  of  thy  evil  passions,  if  thou 
have  any;  to  be  freed  from  inordinate  affections, 
whereby  thou  either  lovest  or  shunnest  unsuitably 
created  objects;  to  be  delivered  from  miseries,  to 
which  thou  art  subject;  lastly,  to  be  preserved 
from  sins  and  defects,  especially  from  those  to 
which  experience  teaches  thee  that  thou  art  more 
inclined. 

Nay  more,  in  order  that  thou  mayst  become  more 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


652 

solid  and  perfect,  as  well  as  more  alike  and  dear  to 
My  Heart,  do  thou  beg  earnestly  for  virtues  or  an 
increase  of  them. 

Ask  for  a more  lively  faith,  a more  firm  hope,  a 
more  fervent  love,  a greater  affection  for  holy  pov- 
erty, a more  Angelic  purity,  a more  perfect  obe- 
dience, a more  eminent  humility  and  meekness,  con- 
formity to  My  divine  Will,  an  intimate  and  abiding 
union  with  Me:  other  virtues,  in  fine,  which  thy 
state  requires,  and  which  are  befitting  in  a Disciple 
of  My  Heart. 

Proceed  still  further,  and  implore  a special  help, 
whereby,  for  love  of  Me,  thou  mayst  perform 
cheerfully  and  meritoriously  those  sacrifices  in 
particular  which  grace  asks  and  desires  of  thee. 

Devote  thyself  wholly,  with  all  thou  art  and 
hast,  as  a living  victim  to  My  honor  and  to  My  love. 

5.  Lastly,  My  Child,  exercise  the  zeal  of  love: 
pray  much  and  fervently  for  others,  to  the  greater 
glory  and  joy  of  My  Heart. 

Through  the  merits  of  the  Saints  and  Angels, 
through  the  Heart  of  My  Immaculate  Virgin 
Mother,  through  My  Heart  Itself,  pray  humbly  foi 
the  universal  Church;  that  she  may  enjoy  peace, 
increase  in  holiness,  and  be  spread  throughout  the 
world. 

For  the  Supreme  Pontiff,  My  Vicegerent,  and 
for  all  My  Ministers;  that  they  may  be  good  labor- 
ers in  My  Vineyard,  may  possess  rightness  of  in- 
tention, purity  of  life,  the  pursuit  of  perfection, 
the  fervor  of  zeal. 

For  Religious;  that  they  may  preserve  their  first 
spirit,  make  constant  progress  in  virtue,  edify  the 
world,  console  the  Church- 


CHAPTER  XX. 


For  all  the  faithful  people;  that  every  one,  in 
the  vocation  to  which  he  was  chosen,  serving  Me 
in  a worthy  and  laudable  manner,  may  strive  to 
make  his  calling  sure. 

Pour  forth,  likewise,  thy  prayers  and  supplica- 
tions for  the  conversion  of  infidels,  of  heretics,  of 
all  sinners;  that,  freed  from  the  errors  of  the 
mind  and  the  vices  of  the  heart,  they  may  direct 
their  steps  into  the  way  of  salvation  and  peace. 

For  thy  kindred,  benefactors,  friends,  and  ex- 
pressly for  thy  enemies;  that  they  may  be  assisted 
with  help  from  above,  be  sanctified,  and  that  they 
may  obtain  all  things  necessary  and  useful  to 
them. 

For  all  the  just,  the  afflicted,  those  in  danger, 
those  who  are  in  their  death-struggle;  that  they 
may  obtain  perseverance,  comfort,  protection,  and 
a happy  end. 

Finally,  for  the  faithful  departed,  for  those  es- 
pecially for  whom  thou  mayst,  in  any  manner,  be 
obliged  to  pray;  that  they  may  deserve  to  enter 
heaven,  and  be  able  to  intercede  for  thee  before  the 
hrone  of  the  divine  mercy. 

6.  Do  all  these  things  faithfully,  My  Child,  and 
endeavor  to  perform  them  in  a gentle  and  effica^ 
cious  manner,  according  to  the  spirit. 

However,  if  I whisper  or  communicate  anything 
to  thee,  or  occupy  thee  in  any-wise,  or  deal  with 
thee,  leave  off  all  beside,  and  hearken  to  Me  with 
docility  and  reverence. 

If  I chide  thee  for  anything,  receive  My  rebuke 
with  a submissive  heart:  if  I exhort,  if  I press 
aught  upon  thee,  resolve,  decide:  if  I grant  or 
promise  aught,  be  liberal  in  return:  if  I bestow 


654 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


any  comfort,  receive  it  humbly,  allow  thyself  to  be 
replenished  with  the  sweetness  of  consolation,  re- 
membering that  I am  good,  that  My  mercy  endures 
forever. 

And,  if  it  happen  that  the  love  bursting  forth 
from  My  Heart  suddenly  takes  possession  of  thee, 
fills  thee  with  rapture,  yield  thou,  My  Child,  and 
suffer  thyself  to  be  carried  whithersoever  it  wills. 

Conceal  thou  outwardly,  as  much  as  thou  canst, 
that  which  grace  does  inwardly, — lest  some  may 
attribute  to  thee  what  is  exclusively  due  to  Me, — 
and  suffer  love  to  be  excessive,  and  to  carry  thee 
through  all  its  transports : permit  thyself  to  be  enkind- 
led with  the  divine  fire,  to  be  melted,  to  be  dissolved. 

Such  things,  through  Its  exceeding  love,  does 
My  Heart  sometimes  effect,  in  regard  to  My  true 
Disciples,  in  order  to  reward  them  for  their  toils 
and  troubles,  lovingly  endured  for  My  sake,  or  for 
sacrifices  which  they  have  generously  made  for  Me: 
or  to  make  them  taste,  with  a full  heart,  how  de- 
lightful It  is  in  the  Sacrament,  and  how  great  a 
sweetness  It  reserves  for  them  in  heaven:  or,  yet, 
that,  when  disposed,  It  may,  by  a wonderful  power 
of  love,  transform  them  into  Me. 

But,  Child,  if  after  piously  and  devoutly  receiv- 
ing Communion,  thou  dost  not  experience  the  sen- 
sible effects  of  grace,  the  motions  of  divine  love, 
be  not  uneasy,  be  not  troubled.  The  fruit  may  not 
be  less,  without  the  feeling  of  these  gifts. 

And  even  if,  by  straining  thyself,  thou  do  excite 
this  feeling,  thou  shalt  derive  no  profit  from  this 
emotion  of  nature;  but,  on  the  contrary,  thou  wilt 
foster  self-love,  nourish  vanity,  and  expose  thyself 
to  delusions. 


CHAPTER  XX. 


655 

But  continue  thou  humbly  and  quietly  in  My 
presence,  exercising  ordinary  acts  of  virtues:  and 
thus  endeavor  to  carry  with  thee  a greater  humility, 
a more  perfect  conformity  to  the  divine  good  pleas- 
ure, if  thou  do  not  feel  the  ardor  and  sweetness  of 
love. 

This,  My  Child,  is  the  common  way  of  the  Saints, 
who  rested  contented  wheresoever  they  were  placed: 
if  not  at  My  Side  with  Thomas,  nor  on  My  Breast  with 
John,  they  remained  with  Mary  at  My  feet,  contin- 
uing faithful  to  the  present  grace,  and  thankful 
therefor:  and,  whether  prostrate  at  My  knees,  or 
admitted  to  My  embrace,  under  either  circumstance, 
they  profited  according  to  the  measure  of  grace 
granted  to  them. 

7.  In  this  manner,  therefore,  wilt  thou  act,  My 
Child,  after  thou  hast  received  the  most  Blessed 
Sacrament.  And  this  method,  although  ever  the 
same,  will  ever  appear  new:  for  thou  wilt  each  time 
use  it  differently  and  variedly,  according  to  the 
state  of  thy  soul,  and  the  motion  of  the  spirit. 

For  I wish  that,  after  Communion,  thou  sufferest 
thy  heart  to  pour  itself  out  before  Me;  to  speak 
and  deal  with  Me,  according  as  it  is  affected  or  able. 

If  thou  readest  certain  forms  of  prayers,  even 
the  most  pious,  thou  dost  not  so  much  give  utter- 
ance to  what  is  thy  own,  as  rehearse  what  belongs 
to  another;  thou  dost  not  communicate  to  Me  thy 
heart,  but,  with  or  without  feeling,  thou  recitest  in 
My  presence,  what  another  heart  has  said.  Shall 
I praise  thee?  herein  I do  not  praise. 

Thinkest  thou  that,  in  this  manner,  thou  canst 
become  a truly  interior  person?  that  thou  cam ' 
discern  the  secrets  which  I am  wont  inwardly  to 


656 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


suggest  to  the  soul?  or  enjoy  My  intimate  commun- 
ications ? 

Wherefore,  Child,  accustom  thyself  to  converse 
with  Me,  heart  to  Heart,  to  unfold  to  Me  thy  sen- 
timents, to  receive  Mine  for  thyself,  to  give  what 
thou  hast,  and  take,  in  return,  what  I liberally  be- 
stow. 

If,  however,  by  reason  of  thy  want  of  skill,  or 
some  desolateness  which  presses  upon  thee,  thou 
canst  do  nothing,  unless  thou  readest  some  forms 
of  prayer;  read,  but  read  little  and  slowly  and  at- 
tentively, and,  pausing  now  and  then,  endeavor  to 
draw  something  from  thy  heart  and  communicate  it 
to  Me.  Thus  thou  wilt  make  progress;  thus  thou 
wilt  acquire,  by  degrees,  the  science  of  the  Saints, 
the  art  of  inwardly  conversing  and  dealing  with  Me. 

8.  When  it  is  now  time  to  return  to  thy  own, 
forget  not  the  remote  thanksgiving. 

Entreat  the  holy  Angels,  to  continue,  in  thy 
stead,  their  praises  before  Me:  and,  together  with 
their  praises,  offer  to  Me  whatsoever  thou  art  about 
to  do  or  suffer. 

Then,  go  whithersoever  the  divine  Will  calls 
thee:  but  outwardly  and  inwardly  give  heed  to  thy- 
self: shun  unnecessary  occasions  of  distraction  and 
dissipation:  take  care  lest  thou  pour  forth  thy  heart 
in  things  worldly  or  useless. 

Make  for  Me  in  thy  innermost  heart  a sanctuary, 
where  thou  mayst  keep  Me  ever  present;  pray  to 
Me  frequently,  consult  Me,  and  communicate  to  Me 
all  thy  concerns. 

According  to  thy  ability,  prove  by  deed  that 
thou  art  mindful  of  the  divine  favor  thou  didst  re- 
ceive: exercise  some  virtue  in  a more  perfect  man- 


CHAPTER  XX. 


657 


ner:  show  a greater  charity  to  them  that  are  ill- 
affected  toward  thee;  or,  on  the  other  hand,  to 
those  against  whom  thou  feelest  some  bitterness: 
exhibit  a deeper  humility,  a gentler  meekness,  and 
other  virtues,  whereby  thou  dost  manifest  to  Me  thy 
gratefulness  and  love;  and,  at  the  same  time,  edify 
thy  neighbor  to  be  zealous  for  better  things,  and  de- 
light My  Heart. 

9.  The  voice  0}  the  Disciple. — O most  kind,  O 
most  sweet  Jesus!  from  my  heart  of  hearts  do  I 
return  thanks  to  Thee,  for  that  Thou  didst  conde- 
scend to  instruct  me  so  perfectly,  so  lovingly,  so 
gently. 

If,  henceforth,  after  holy  Communion,  I do  not 
spend  my  time  well,  if  I do  not  act  rightly,  I con- 
fess myself  inexcusable. 

Hadst  Thou  not  spoken  to  me,  hadst  Thou  not 
thus  taught  me,  my  imperfect  manner  of  acting,  the 
little  fruit  derived  from  my  Communions,  might, 
perhaps,  to  a certain  extent,  have  found  an  excuse 
before  Thee:  but  now  ± have  no  excuse. 

O Jesus,  infinite  goodness!  excite  me  to  fervor: 
assist  me  with  Thy  grace,  that  I may  reduce  to 
practice  the  sweet  and  holy  things,  which  Thou 
hast  drawn  out  of  Thy  Heart,  and  delivered  to  me, 
and  which  I desire  with  all  my  affections. 

For  what  is  there  sweeter  in  life?  what  is  there 
happier  in  this  world?  what  is  there  better  or 
holier  ? 

O my  love,  Jesus,  divine  Bridegroom  of  my  soul, 
Thou  ever-enduring  delight  of  the  Angels  and 
Saints!  when  I enjoy  Thee,  what  can  I desire  be- 
yond? 

Grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that  then  I may  be  wholly 


658 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Thine,  and  Thou  wholly  mine;  that  I may  deal 
with  Thee  according  to  the  good  pleasure  of  Thy 
Heart;  that  I be  and  remain  wholly  resigned,  and 
united  to  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXI. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  IN  THE  BOUN- 
TIFUL SACRAMENT  OF  THE  EUCHARIST,  GIVES 
US  A REMEDY,  WHEREBY  WE  ARE  FREED  FROM 
VENIAL,  AND  PRESERVED  FROM  MORTAL  SINS. 

i.  The  voice  0}  Jesus. — My  Child,  this  is  the 
Bread  which  comes  down  from  heaven;  so  that  if 
any  one  eat  of  it,  he  may  not  die. 

The  first  substantial  and  enduring  fruit,  that  the 
soul  gathers  from  My  Heart,  in  holy  Communion, 
is  that  she  is  freed  from  defects,  is  strengthened  in 
good,  and  preserved  from  spiritual  death. 

That  this,  so  consoling  an  effect  of  Communion, 
might  be  made  known,  this  life-giving  Sacrament 
was  instituted  under  the  appearance  of  food.  For 
nourishment  keeps  the  body  from  weakness,  in- 
creases its  strength,  continues  its  life. 

What  natural  food  does  in  the  body,  that,  but  in 
a much  more  perfect  and  marvelous  manner,  this 
supernatural  nourishment,  this  Bread  of  Angels, 
effects  in  the  soul. 

If  the  fruit  of  the  tree  of  life,  placed  in  Para- 
dise, could  save  the  human  body  from  death,  and 
preserve  it  in  an  everlasting  youthfulness;  how 
much  more  will  this  food,  which  comes  down  from 


CHAPTER  XXI.  650 

heaven,  be  able  to  guard  the  soul  against  death  and 
keep  her  in  permanent  vigor  ? 

Yea,  My  Child,  the  fruit  of  the  Sacrament,  this 
heavenly  nourishment  does,  sometimes,  for  the 
soul  what  neither  the  fruit  of  the  tree  of  life,  nor 
any  terrestrial  food  can  effect  for  the  body.  For 
should  it  happen  that  some  one,  after  a sincere 
proving  of  himself,  after  a sincere  examination  of 
his  conscience,  should  invincibly,  and,  therefore, 
inculpably,  be  ignorant  of  a mortal  sin,  and  so  in 
good  faith  eat  of  this  living  Bread,  he  would  ob- 
tain, at  the  same  time,  the  life  of  sanctifying  grace 
and  the  remission  of  his  hidden  sin. 

2.  This  divine  Sacrament  supplies,  not  only 
great  strength  to  turn  away  from  evil,  but  even 
hinders  or  lessens  the  very  causes  of  evil. 

Does  not  water  extinguish  fire?  But  the  divine 
Eucharist  extinguishes,  much  more  effectually,  the 
heat  of  the  passions.  For  it  contains  every  virtue, 
and,  therefore,  it  checks  every  passion. 

What  wonder,  My  Child,  if  this  heavenly  mys- 
tery renders  all  vices  and  unlawful  pleasures  un- 
pleasant and  distasteful,  since  it  gives  to  men  to 
drink  the  wine  whose  fruit  are  virgins,  and  offers 
to  them  the  delights  of  Angels? 

Am  not  I the  Bread  of  the  life  of  bliss,  the 
fountain  of  everlasting  sweetness?  He  that  comes 
to  Me  shall  no  longer  hunger  or  thirst  after  the 
forbidden  and  dangerous  aliments  of  the  world: 
for,  him  I satiate  with  the  good  things  of  God, 
which,  by  their  deliciousness,  have  the  power  of 
causing  all  that  is  prohibited,  all  that  is  of  earth, 
to  appear  bitter  and  distasteful. 

3.  When  I am  Sacramentally  present,  the  ene- 


66o 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


mies  of  salvation  flee  far  away  from  the  soul, 
which,  through  holy  Communion,  has  become  ten 
rible  to  them. 

If,  at  any  time,  they  venture  to  assail  her,  they 
approach  her  full  of  dread,  and  make  their  attacks 
from  afar. 

And  these  assaults  themselves, — since  the  pas- 
sions of  the  soul  have  become  more  subdued  and 
tranquilized, — affect  her  less,  and  expose  her  less 
to  danger. 

For,  when  she  perceives  herself  tempted  to  sin, 
if  she  thinks  that  she  has  received  God  in  her 
heart,  or  that  she  is  about  to  receive  God  therein, 
will  not  this  mere  thought  suffice  to  repel  th* 
temptation?  will  it  not  be  an  inducement  to  exert 
her  strength,  that  she  may  preserve  her  heart  un- 
sullied, and  that  she  may  remain  faithful? 

How  many  souls  have  there  been  in  this  world, 
that, — although  at  first  they  were  the  slaves  of 
baneful  passions,  yet,  by  the  pious  and  frequent 
use  of  this  saving  Sacrament, — were  not  only,  in  a 
short  time,  happily  delivered  from  them,  but  over- 
came, with  ease,  the  attacks  of  demons,  and  con- 
tinued ever  faithful. 

And,  indeed,  if  during  My  mortal  life,  when  I 
dwelled  with  men,  a virtue  went  forth  from  Me, 
and  healed  all  infirmities;  how  much  more  now,  in 
My  Sacramental  life,  does  the  virtue  issuing  from 
My  Heart,  heal  and  strengthen  the  souls  united  to 
Me  by  Communion  ? 

4.  Moreover,  My  Child,  when  I come  to  the 
soul,  through  the  holy  Sacrament,  I bring  with 
Me  all  the  sentiments  of  My  Heart,  and,  according 
to  the  disposition  of  her  heart,  I share  these  with 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


66l 


her:  the  love  of  humility,  the  love  of  charity,  the 
love  of  holy  poverty,  the  love  of  purity,  the  love 
of  obedience,  in  fine,  of  all  virtues  which  remove 
the  sources  of  vice,  that  they  themselves  may 
occupy  their  place. 

This  love,  which  is  the  soul  of  all  virtues,  and 
which  My  Heart  communicates  through  the  Sacra- 
ment, is  strong  as  death.  This,  unless  thou  hin- 
der it,  will  render  thee  invincible. 

Call  to  mind  the  primitive  Church:  how  great 
a fortitude  of  love  My  Heart  was  wont  to  impart 
through  holy  Communion,  so  that  the  faithful,— 
even  they  that  were  weakest  by  nature,  children 
and  tender  maidens, — wrere  victorious  over  all  the 
enemies  of  salvation,  and  stronger  than  death 
itself. 

Whatever  allurement  the  pride  of  life  possessed, 
whatever  the  lust  of  the  eyes  could  effect,  whatever 
effort  the  concupiscence  of  the  flesh  could  make, 
was  not  able,  in  the  least,  to  captivate  hearts, 
that,— fortified  with  this  food  of  the  strong,  re- 
plenished with  the  sweetness  of  My  love, — longed 
for  naught  save  to  persevere  in  love  for  Me,  and 
feared  nothing  except  to  be  deprived  of  My  love. 

What  could  separate  these  from  My  love?  not 
tribulation,  not  distress,  not  persecution,  not  death 
in  any  shape. 

5.  That  which  this  Sacrament  of  the  love  of  My 
Heart  did  formerly  work  so  visibly,  the  same  it 
does  even  now. 

For,  whence,  except  from  My  Heart  in  this  di- 
vine mystery,  among  so  many  of  the  faithful,  so 
great  an  abhorrence  of  whatsoever  the  world  and 
self-love  pursue?  whence,  among  so  many  vouths 


662 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


and  maidens,  so  great  a love  of  innocence,  that 
they  spurn  and  trample  under  foot  all  things  con- 
trary thereto,  how  charming  soever  they  may  ap- 
pear to  nature;  that  they  seek,  and  embrace  with 
joy,  every  safeguard  of  their  beloved  virtue  al- 
though disagreeable  to  nature?  Whence,  in  many, 
that  generousness  of  heart,  even  to  loving  the  cross 
for  My  sake,  even  to  making  sacrifices  with  glad- 
ness for  love  of  Me  ? Whence,  in  fine,  in  very 
many,  of  every  condition  in  life,  so  great  a forti- 
tude, that,  although  they  own  themselves  weak, 
they  withstand,  unconquered,  every  opposition  of 
the  world,  all  the  assaults  of  hell,  yea,  overcome 
them  triumphantly? 

Behold  here  marvelous  things,  My  Child;  bt~ 
hold,  how  this  divine  Bread,  which  the  love  of  Mp 
Heart  bestows,  gives  life  and  preserves  it  from 
death  and  even  from  decay. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O living  and  life- 
giving  Sacrament!  whence  I have  the  Bread  of  life, 
whereby  I may  live  and  be  strong  in  spirit.  I be- 
seech Thee,  O Lord,  give  me  always  this  Bread: 
but  so  that  I may  not  grow  sick  nor  die. 

For  how  many  examples  have  we  heard,  and 
how  many  have  our  fathers  related  to  us,  of  them 
that  have  eaten  this  Bread  of  life,  and  died! 

Nay,  we  have  seen  and  known,  and  trembled 
with  fear,  that  even  of  them  that  frequently  or 
even  daily  banqueted  with  Thee,  and  ought  there- 
fore to  have  lived  like  Angels,  some  have  shame- 
fully gone  away,  and  filled  themselves  with  the 
husks  of  swine,  and  wallowed  in  the  mire,  despis- 
ing grace,  despising  heaven,  despising  the  dread  of 
hell  itself! 


CHAPTER  XXI. 


663 


The  voice  of  Jesus. — Behold,  My  Child,  men 
who,  when  they  were  in  honor,  did  not  understand, 
but  have  become  like  to  senseless  beasts! 

But  judge  thou  rightly:  if  thou  perceivest  that 
even  they,  who  here  banqueted  in  purple,  have 
sought  their  delight  in  filthiness,  ascribe  it  solely 
to  their  senseless,  evil  will. 

For,  this  saving  Sacrament,  although  of  itself  it 
preserves  from  death,  does  not  however  deprive 
man,  if  he  be  unwilling  to  live,  of  the  power  of 
causing  death  to  himself. 

By  weakening  the  passions  and  the  foe,  it  strength- 
ens and  assists,  in  a wonderful  manner,  the  freedom 
of  the  will,  but  it  places  no  necessity  upon  the  same. 

Wherefore,  a person  often  and  duly  strengthened 
by  this  divine  nourishment,  will  live  and  not  die, 
although  he  may  do  so,  if  he  misuses,  for  the 
purpose  of  causing  death,  what  is  given  for  the  pur- 
pose of  life. 

When,  therefore,  thou  hearest  the  examples  of 
them  that  have  fallen,  reflect  on  thyself,  and  say: 
He  that  stands,  let  him  take  heed  lest  he  fall. 

And  be  thou  so  much  the  more  on  thy  guard, 
lest  by  voluntary  defects  and  lukewarmness,  thou 
hinder  holy  Communion  from  producing  its  saving 
and  divine  effects. 

7.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O Jesus!  O life! 
through  which  I live,  without  which  I die:  bid  me 
ever  live  by  this  life:  bid  me  ever  enjoy  vigorous- 
ness of  spirit. 

O my  beatitude,  O Lord!  whom  I possess  through 
holy  Communion,  I ask  no  sensible  consolations, 
but  that  love,  by  which  I may  be  so  strong,  that  I do 
never  grow  weak;  by  which  I mav  be  sa  reolen- 


664 


THE  .FOURTH  BOOK. 


ished,  that  whatsoever  the  world  offers  me,  may 
cause  me  disgust,  never  any  relish. 

Grant  me,  I beseech  Thee,  to  watch  more  cau- 
tiously over  all  the  senses  of  my  body,  to  guard 
more  attentively  every  faculty  of  my  soul,  so  that 
no  fault  do  hinder  the  fruit  of  Communion. 

Drive,  and  keep  far  from  me,  all  occasions  of  sin; 
protect  me  powerfully,  and  preserve  me  unharmed 
amidst  the  dangers  to  which,  for  the  sake  of  Thy 
service,  I must  be  exposed. 

But,  more  than  all,  keep  me  from  all  sin,  and 
grant  that  I may  never  be  separated  from  Thee, 
who  art  my  only  true  and  blissful  life. 

8.  How  good  it  is  to  be  with  Thee,  O Jesus, 
sweetness  of  my  heart,  sole  felicity  of  my  soul!  O 
do  not  suffer  me  to  depart  from  Thee,  nor  do  Thou 
Thyself,  I implore  Thee,  withdraw  from  me. 

Stay  with  me,  I entreat  Thee,  lest  darkness  seize 
me,  lest  dangers  encompass  me,  lest,  destitute  of 
courage  and  strength,  I perish:  for  Thou  art  my 
true  light,  Thou  my  place  of  refuge,  Thou  my 
strength  and  salvation. 

By  the  love  of  Thy  Heart,  I beg  and  implore 
Thee,  abide  with  me,  O most  kind  and  sweet  Jesus: 
without  Thee,  nothing  is  well,  nothing  is  pleasing. 
Without  Thee,  O how  miserable  am  I!  but  O how 
blissful  with  Thee! 

Stay,  therefore,  with  me,  and  rather  deprive  me 
of  the  possession  of  all  else,  of  the  love  of  all 
creatures,  than  permit  that  I should  be  deprived 
of  the  possession  and  the  love  of  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


665 


CHAPTER  XXII. 

BY  HOLY  COMMUNION  THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF 

JESUS  UNITES  US  WITH  HIMSELF,  AND  MAKES 

US  LIVE  THROUGH  AND  FOR  HIM. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  he  that  eat- 
eth  Me,  the  same  shall  live  by  Me. 

Why  should  he  not  also  live  for  Me,  since  he  is 
so  united  with  Me  that  he  is  incorporated  with  Me, 
and  animated  by  Me? 

For  behold!  if  ever,  it  is  assuredly  in  Commun- 
ion thou  art  become  a member  of  My  Body,  of 
My  Flesh,  of  My  Blood.  Wilt  thou,  then,  taking 
a member  of  Christ  the  Lord  thy  God,  make  it  a 
member  of  the  world  or  of  iniquity?  God  forbid. 

But,  rendered  living  and  holy  by  My  very  Body 
and  Blood,  thou  wilt  show  thyself  living  of  Me, 
holy,  pleasing  to  Me  in  all  things. 

As  the  body  does,  in  some  manner,  put  on  the 
qualities  of  the  food  wherewith  it  is  wont  to  be 
nourished;  so  that  he  who,  being  properly  dis- 
posed, nourishes  himself  with  strong  and  solid  ali- 
ments, becomes  himself  strong  and  robust:  thus, 
My  Child,  thou  shalt  find  by  experience,  if  thou 
feedest  often  and  properly  on  Me,  the  principle  of 
all  purity  and  sanctity,  that  thou  also  shalt  become 
pure  and  holy. 

Thy  soul  cleaving  to  Me,  will  now  no  longer 
crawl  with  her  mind  among  earthly  and  perishable 
things,  will  no  longer  with  her  heart  find  delight 
among  the  low  and  vain  pleasures  of  the  world' 


666 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


but  will  seek  the  things  which  are  above  and  en- 
during; she  will  relish  that  which  is  supernal  and 
good. 

Principles  foreign  to  Me  shall  animate  thee  no 
more:  merely  natural  sentiments  shall  no  longer 
exercise  an  influence  over  thy  life;  but  because  I 
live,  thou  shalt  also  live. 

This  true,  supernatural,  holy  life,  which  thou 
wilt  live  as  effected  by  Me,  which  thou  wilt  live 
hidden  in  Me,  thou  wilt  also  live  for  Me. 

2.  If,  in  this  thy  life,  thou  dost  any  good  works, 
if  thou  practicest  any  virtues,  if  thou  performest 
any  exercises  of  piety;  all  these  will  be  for  Me. 

If  any  one  ask  thee,  why  thcu  thinkest,  why 
thou  speak est,  why  thou  actest,  why  thou  sufferest 
in  this  manner,  thou  wilt  be  able  to  answer:  It  is 
all  for  the  sake  of  Him  who  loved  me,  and  gave 
Plimself  to  me. 

Marvelous  intercourse  of  My  Heart,  secret  and 
divine  communing  with  a pure  and  faithful  heart, 
in  this  Sacrament  of  love!  The  world  understands 
not  these  things. 

And  who  can  comprehend  it,  save  the  innocent 
in  body  and  the  clean  of  heart?  The  same  shall 
know,  he  shall  experience,  he,  in  fine,  being  ad- 
mitted to  higher  and  more  interior  things,  shall  live 
for  Me  in  a still  more  marvelous  manner. 

3.  For,  being  continually  nourished  of  Me,  and 
completely  united  with  Me,  he  will  at  last  not  live 
save  of  Me:  he  will  not  breathe  save  by  My  breath, 
he  will  not  love  except  by  My  love. 

Yea,  as  the  living  Father  has  sent  Me,  and  I live 
through  the  Father:  so  he  that  eats  My  Flesh,  the 
same  shall  in  like  manner  live  through  Me. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


667 


Attend,  My  Child,  and  understand  all  the  sub- 
limity of  this.  As  I receive  of  the  Father,  and  un- 
ceasingly have  in  the  Father,  divine  being,  life,  and 
perfection:  so  he  that  is  rightly  disposed,  receives 
of  Me,  through  holy  Communion,  and  possesses 
uninterruptedly  in  Me  a holy  being,  a holy  life,  a 
holy  perfection. 

I am  holy  because  My  Father  is  holy:  and  he 
that  is  here  incorporated  with  Me,  partakes  of  My 
sanctity. 

4.  My  Child,  does  not  fire  communicate  its  heat 
and  color  to  the  iron  or  wood  which  is  put  into  it? 
But  in  the  Sacrament  there  is  a far  more  wonderful 
and  more  perfect  communication  between  Me  and 
the  soul  which  is  rightly  prepared. 

She  communicates  herself  wholly  to  Me,  and,  if 
disposed,  she  receives  in  return  the  communication 
not  only  of  My  Humanity,  but  also  of  My  Divinity; 
which,  when  My  Humanity  ceases  to  exist  and  act 
in  her,  continues  to  operate  in  her,  like  a super- 
substantial  food,  which  not  merely  preserves,  but 
even  increases  and  perfects  her  spiritual,  her  holy  life. 

Yea,  it  causes  My  Spirit  to  flow  perpetually  into 
that  blissful  soul,  and  the  love  of  My  Heart  to  urge 
her  on  gently  and  strongly;  incited  by  which  she 
allows  herself  to  be  guided  by  My  Spirit:  nay  more, 
whithersoever  she  is  guided  by  My  Spirit,  she  cheer- 
fully concurs  with  the  same,  living  always  and 
everywhere  in  Me. 

In  this  wise,  therefore,  does  a well-disposed  soul, 
through  holy  Communion,  live  through  Me  and  for 
Me.  Being  often  refreshed  sacramentally,  she  be- 
comes, at  last,  so  assimilated  to  Me,  that  she  mani- 
fests My  life  in  herself. 


668 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Take  courage,  Child,  be  zealous  of  these  things, 
and  strive  diligently  to  attain  to  what  is  so  consoling, 
so  advantageous,  and  so  glorious  to  Me  and  to  thee 
forever. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Lord  Jesus 
Thou  knowest  how  I long,  how  I yearn  for  these 
things. 

By  Thy  most  Sacred  Heart,  I entreat  Thee,  0 
Thou  the  beginning  and  end  of  my  life,  do  Thou 
frequently,  in  this  Sacrament,  nourish  with  Thyself 
me,  whom  by  Thy  grace  Thou  hast  begotten,  that 
I may  live  for  Thee. 

Behold,  O Lord,  it  is  by  Thy  gift  that  I live- 
but  for  what  do  I live,  if  I live  not  for  Thee? 

O Jesus,  fountain  of  life,  never-failing  bliss 
free  me  from  every  inordinate  disposition,  that  I 
may  be  wholly  replenished  with  Thee,  that  I may 
wholly  live  for  Thee. 

So  often  as,  through  holy  Communion,  Thou 
comest  to  me,  if  Thou  findest  in  me  aught  that  is 
worldly,  aught  that  is  foreign  to  Thy  Spirit,  aught 
that  is  opposed  to  the  good  pleasure  of  Thy  Heart; 
do  Thou  root  it  out,  I beseech  Thee,  that  it  may 
yield  its  place  to  Thee,  to  the  Spirit  and  love  of 
Thy  Heart. 

Free  me  altogether  from  every  obstacle:  with 
the  divine  fire  of  Thy  Heart,  do  Thou  consume 
whatsoever  hinders  me  from  being  sacredly  and 
perfectly  united  with  Thee,  so  that,  being  no 
longer  mine  but  Thine,  I may  altogether  live  for 
Thee. 

6.  Renew,  sanctify  my  body  and  soul,  that,  being 
consecrated  to  Thee,  and  animated  by  Thee,  they 
may  be  solely  occupied  with  Thee,  and  for  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXII. 


669 


Grant,  I entreat  Thee,  that  I may  undertake  and 
perform  every  employment  for  Thee;  and  that, 
during  the  same,  so  far  as  is  allowed,  I may  often 
entertain  myself  with  Thee. 

Grant,  that,  when  I am  free  from  my  occupa- 
tions, I may  forthwith,  with  mind  and  heart,  turn 
myself  to  Thee,  as  the  weight,  when  the  obstacle  is 
removed,  hastens  to  its  centre. 

Be  Thou  alone,  henceforth,  the  beginning  and 
the  end  of  all  I do  or  suffer,  whether  inwardly  or 
outwardly. 

Ah,  Lord  Jesus!  although  nourished  by  Thee 
and  for  Thee,  how  long,  how  often,  have  I labored 
and  endured  not  for  Thee,  but  for  the  enemies  of 
Thy  honor  and  glory, — for  self-love,  for  a vain 
pr’de! 

Forgive  me,  I implore  Thee,  this  perverseness, 
this  injustice,  this  great  ingratitude. 

Give  me  efficacious  grace,  that,  as  is  most  just 
and  worthy,  living  of  Thee,  I may  likewise  live  for 
Thee. 

7.  O Jesus,  most  loving  and  most  amiable  Bride- 
groom of  my  soul!  enlighten  me,  enkindle  me,  that 
I may  more  perfectly  know,  more  fervently  love 
Thee,  my  only  blissful  life. 

1 acknowledge  and  confess,  O Lord,  that  I am 
not  worthy  that  Thou  shouldst  raise  me  to  the  sub- 
limity of  Thy  life,  which  Thou  art  wont  to  com- 
municate, in  the  Sacrament,  to  Thy  Saints:  but 
Thou,  Lord,  art  most  worthy  to  be  served,  for  the 
glory  and  joy  of  Thy  Heart,  in  a holy  manner — 
even  by  me. 

This  grace,  therefore,  do  Thou  grant  to  me, 
*hat,  through  a frequent  and  devout  Communion,  I 


07c 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


may  attain  to  this,  that  I may  live,  as  Thou  also 
livest. 

Yea,  live  Thou,  O Jesus,  infinite  sweetness,  my 
everlasting  happiness!  live  Thou,  reign  Thou,  tri- 
umph Thou  in  me,  unto  Thy  honor,  unto  every- 
thing that  can  be  pleasing  to  Thy  Heart. 

May  everything  I possess,  may  all  I am,  be  im- 
molated, be  sacrificed  to  Thee  by  purest  love: 
Thou  alone,  most  sweet  Jesus,  art  my  life:  Thou 
alone  art  everything  to  me. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS,  THROUGH 
HOLY  COMMUNION,  PERFECTS  HIS  UNION  WITH 
US,  AND  TRANSFORMS  US  INTO  HIMSELF. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  he  that  eats 
My  Flesh,  and  drinks  My  Blood,  abides  in  Me,  and 
I in  him. 

Behold  here  a perfect  union,  whereby  I,  a divine 
Person,  am  found  with  Body  and  Soul  in  thee; 
and  thou,  a human  person,  art  found  with  body  and 
soul  in  Me. 

This  union  is,  therefore,  true  and  substantial. 
For  no  one  is  in  Me,  unless  I be  in  him. 

If  some  one  pours  melted  wax  into  other  melted 
wax,  the  one  must  necessarily  commingle  with  the 
other:  in  like  manner,  when  thou  receivest  My  Body 
and  Blood,  thou  art  so  united  with  Me,  that  thou 
art  in  Me,  and  I am  truly  and  intimately  in  thee. 


CHAPTER  XXIIIc 


671 


Is  not  this,  My  Child,  a mystery  of  love?  Verily, 
it  is  even  an  excess  of  love;  for  the  force  and 
power  of  love  over  My  Heart  are  such  that  thereby 
it  is  given  to  man,  not  only  to  be  completely  made 
one  with  My  Body,  but  also  with  My  Soul  and  My 
very  Divinity,  and  that  he  sweetly  enjoy  the 
same. 

How  the  Angels  wonder  at  this!  how  they  stand 
astonished!  how  blissful  they  pronounce  thee. 

2.  In  this  holy  intercourse,  My  Heart  pours 
forth  that  delicious  and  precious  grace,  whereby 
this  consummate  union  becomes  enduring,  so  that 
I abide  in  thee  and  thou  in  Me. 

For,  even  after  the  Sacramental  species  are  con- 
sumed, I,  as  God,  abide  personally  in  thee,  not  only 
as  living  in  a living  temple,  adorned  with  habitual 
grace,  but  also  as  the  perpetual  principle  of  super- 
natural sanctity,  elevating  thy  life  by  the  continual 
influence  of  sanctifying  grace,  and  by  the  frequent 
infusion  of  actual  grace!  and  thus  thou,  in  return, 
abidest,  in  a peculiar  manner,  in  Me. 

Hence  it  is,  My  Child,  that  thou  art  enabled  to 
live  a life  truly  holy,  a life,  in  some  manner,  divine: 
since  thou  possessest  ever,  - both  in  thy  body  and 
soul,  My  Divinity,  whence  thou  mayst  draw  life. 

And  this  abiding  union  between  Me  and  thee 
will  be  perfect,  whensoever  there  shall  exist  be- 
tween Me  and  thee  a true  similarity,  a true  uni- 
formity: for  things  dissimilar  and  different  are 
difficultly  and  imperfectly  united  with  each  other. 

Blessed  perfection  of  abiding  union!  Blessed 
thou,  My  Child,  if,  through  frequent  and  devout 
Communion,  if,  through  manifold  grace  thence  re- 
ceived, if,  through  a generous  fidelity,  if,  through 


672 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


constant  fervor  of  love,  thou  disposest  thyself  to 
this  perfect  union! 

3.  For  what  springs  from  a perfect  union,  if  not 
oneness?  Therefore,  we  shall  now  be  no  longer 
two,  but,  in  some  manner,  one. 

This  marvelous,  delightful,  beatific  oneness  is 
above  all  distinguished — and  excels  all  others,  which 
are  blended  together  from  created  objects — by  this, 
that  it  arises,  not  from  the  combining  or  putting 
together  of  us  both,  but  from  the  transformation  of 
the  one  into  the  other. 

Thou  wilt  not,  however,  change  Me  into  thee, 
like  natural  food:  but  thou  shalt  be  changed  into 
Me. 

Then,  My  Child,  the  affections  of  thy  heart  shall 
no  longer  be  thine,  thy  desires  shall  be  thine  no 
more,  thy  joy  thine  no  more. 

And,  whatever  natural  inclinations  thou  shalt 
possess,  and  whatever  other  affections  according 
to  man,  these,  for  this  transformed  life,  shall  be 
as  if  they  were  not;  since  thou  shalt  not  live  by 
them. 

But  in  this  new  life,  thou  shalt  live  My  life:  the 
affections  and  inclinations  of  My  Heart  shall  now 
be  thy  affections  and  inclinations:  the  love,  the  de- 
sires, the  joy  of  My  Heart,  shall  now  be  thy  love 
thy  desires,  thy  joy. 

The  aversion  of  My  Heart  to  evil,  to  the  world, 
to  everything  vain,  will  pervade  and  replenish  thy 
heart. 

The  boundless  zeal,  wherewith  My  Heart  is  burn- 
ing, for  the  honor  and  glory  of  God,  for  the  salva- 
tion and  perfection  of  souls,  will  inflame  thy 
heart. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


673 


Whatsoever  is  bitter,  thou  shalt  find  sweet; 
what  is  distasteful,  thou  shalt  deem  delicious;  what 
is  difficult,  thou  shalt  account  easy  in  Him  in  whom 
thou  livest  and  art  able  to  do  all  things. 

Thou  shalt  think  of  everything  as  1 think;  thou 
shalt  will  as  I will;  thou  shalt  live  as  I live:  yea, 
thou  shalt  live,  thyself  no  more,  but  I in  thee. 

4.  Behold,  My  Child,  the  hight  to  which  the 
faithful  soul  is  raised  through  holy  Communion ! 
Who,  except  one  that  has  experienced  it,  can 
understand  all  the  holy,  all  the  delightful,  all  the 
marvelous  things  of  a soul  thus  transformed  into 
Me! 

Many  are  called  to  this  supernatural  transforma- 
tion, but  few  are  chosen:  not  that  I am  unwilling 
to  choose  them  that  are  called,  but  because  they  do 
not  dispose  themselves,  by  means  of  the  grace  im- 
parted to  them. 

For,  how  many  there  are,  wno,  even  though  they 
frequent  the  holy  Sacrament,  do  yet  continue,  in 
almost  everything,  to  follow  nature! 

How  many,  also,  there  are,  who  strive  indeed  to 
keep  themselves  in  a state  of  grace,  but  who,  satis- 
fied with  this,  so  serve  nature  that  they  perform 
their  actions  from  natural  aversion  or  inclination! 

How  many,  in  fine,  who,  although  they  make 
profession  of  a pious  or  even  a religious  life,  and 
have  spent  several  years  therein,  have  not  yet  learnt 
to  pass  beyond  nature! 

What  wonder,  then,  if  these  remain  always  im- 
perfect, always  miserable,  ever  unprepared  for  that 
divine  and  perfect  union! 

5.  But  they  who,  being  disposed,  have  reached 
this  state  of  transformation,  how  great  a happiness 


674 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


do  they  possess!  how  holy  a liberty  do  they  enjoy! 
with  what  purity  do  they  taste  My  sweetness! 

Hence,  they  despise  all  things  that  perish,  they 
forget  themselves;  made  perfect  and  blissful,  they 
abide  in  Me. 

The  greatest  bliss,  My  Child,  the  greatest  hight, 
the  greatest  perfection,  to  which  a person  can  be 
raised  in  this  mortal  life,  is  this,  that  he  abide 
transformed  and  consummated  in  Me. 

Marvelous,  yea,  unspeakable  state,  wherein  Mine 
are  and  remain  thine,  and  thine  Mine,  and  wherein 
oneness  and  fellowship  between  Me  and  thee  are 
perpetually  strengthened ! 

Come,  then,  My  Child,  do  not  lose  the  hope  of  so 
great  a perfection,  but,  after  having  heard  the  bliss- 
fulness of  such  a state,  be  more  courageous,  more 
generous,  more  faithful:  thus,  at  the  proper  time, 
I will  lift  thee  up  unto  Myself. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — O Jesus,  my 
love,  most  pure  Bridegroom,  most  holy  God!  with 
how  great  a sweetness  dost  Thou  deal  with  me, 
who  comest  so  often  and  so  kindly  to  me  in  this 
most  delicious  Sacrament,  in  order  to  unite  me, 
miserable  creature,  with  Thyself,  with  Thy  most 
sacred  Humanity,  with  Thy  adorable  Divinity! 

By  the  love  of  Thy  Heart,  whereby  Thcu  deem- 
est  me  worthy  of  such  a favor,  I beg  and  beseech 
Thee,  consume  Thou  whatsoever  there  is  in  me 
contrary  to  the  perfection  of  this  union ; and  en- 
kindle within  me  a great  fervor;  that,  generous 
and  faithful  to  every  motion  of  grace,  I may  tran- 
scend all  merely  natural  things,  and  practice  pure 
virtues. 

Thou  knowest,  O Lord,  how  great  a desire. 


CHAPTER  XXIII. 


675 


through  Thy  goodness,  possesses  me  of  disposing 
myself  ever  more  and  more  to  this  perfect  and 
permanent  union  with  Thee. 

Behold  1 I offer,  I deliver  up  to  Thee,  whatso- 
ever I am:  I give  Thee  my  heart,  that  it  may  be 
united  with  Thine:  I give  Thee  my  spirit,  that  it 
may  be  absorbed  by  Thine:  I give  Thee  my  whole 
self,  that,  by  the  efficacious  grace  of  Thy  Sacra- 
ment, I may  be  made  of  one  likeness  and  form  with 
Thee. 

Receive  me,  O Jesus  1 accept  me:  unite  me 
wholly  with  Thee:  absorb  me  altogether:  trans- 
form me  into  Thyself. 

7.  O how  great  and  wonderful  is  the  power  of 
Thy  love,  whereby  Thou  changest  the  soul  into 
Thyself  I how  great  the  condescension  of  Thy  good- 
ness! how  great,  likewise,  the  dignity  and  excel- 
lence of  the  soul  transformed  into  Thee! 

O Lord  my  God!  lo,  shall  it  ever  be  given  me 
thus  to  enjoy  Thee?  O let  it  be  so,  I beseech 
Thee!  all  the  honor  and  glory  of  so  blissful,  of  so 
disinterested  a favor  shall  belong  to  Thy  Heart, 
the  fountain  of  all  blessings. 

Let  me  cease  to  be  what  I am,  that  I may  begin 
to  be  what  Thou  art,  Lord  Jesus:  live  Thou  alone 
in  me  with  Thy  love,  with  Thy  Spirit,  with  all  Thy 
Heart’s  inclinations  and  dispositions,  with  Thy  good 
pleasure  for  time  and  for  eternity. 


676 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 

THROUGH  HOLY  COMMUNION  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS  BESTOWS  UPON  US  THE  GIFT 

OF  PERSEVERANCE. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus . — My  Child,  he  that  eats 
this  Bread  shall  live  forever. 

And  why  should  he  not  lead  an  immortal  life? 
for,  he  has  within  him  an  enduring,  an  ever-living 
principle,  whereby  he  may  continue  upon  earth  the 
life  of  grace,  until  he  arrive  at  the  life  of  glory  in 
heaven. 

Thou  wilt  understand  the  price  of  this  saving 
fruit  of  the  holy  Communion,  and  burn  with  love  for 
the  same,  if  thou  attendest  to  the  magnitude  of  the 
gift,  whereby  perseverance  in  the  life  of  grace  is 
secured. 

Perseverance,  My  Child,  is  the  consummation  of 
virtue,  the  guardian  of  merit,  the  last  and  perma- 
nent triumph,  the  secure  reward  cf  labors  and  suf- 
ferings, the  crown  of  everlasting  glory. 

Without  perseverance,  all  other  things,  whatso- 
ever they  be,  are  devoid  of  their  everlasting  fruit 
and  reward:  perseverance  alone  crowns  all. 

And  therefore  were  all  the  Saints  so  particularly 
anxious  about  this  great  gift,  that,  since  they  could 
not  condignly  merit  the  same,  they  might,  at  least, 
put  no  hindrance  to  it,  and  might,  through  the 
means  given,  carefully  prepare  themselves  therefor. 

Do  thou,  in  like  manner,  diligently  dispose  thy- 
self, My  Child,  by  the  removal  of  every  obstac1^- 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


677 


and,  as  they  did,  so  wilt  thou  also,  through  holy 
Communion,  obtain  this  most  excellent  gift  of  per- 
severance. 

2.  This  have  I determined  in  My  Heart,  Child, 
that  the  greatest  Sacrament,  the  holy  Eucharist, 
should  impart  the  greatest  grace — perseverance. 

And,  indeed,  since  in  the  Sacrament  I give  My- 
self to  thee,  whereby  the  Majesty  of  the  Divinity 
may  seem  to  be  debased;  why  should  I not  give 
perseverance,  whereby  the  glory  of  the  Divinity  is 
exalted  ? 

Wherefore,  although  of  thyself  thou  art  weak 
and  hast  many  miseries,  here  thou  wilt  receive  for 
thyself  such  strength  from  My  Heart  that  thou 
wilt  be  enabled  to  reach  the  goal  in  safety. 

For,  if  the  Prophet,  in  the  strength  of  the  food, 
which  was  only  a figure  of  the  Sacrament,  reached 
the  mountain  of  God,  how  much  more  shalt  thou  be 
enabled,  by  the  strength  of  the  truly  life-giving,  of 
the  truly  divine  food,  to  reach  the  hights  of  the 
everlasting  hills? 

Lift  up  thy  eyes,  and  see  how  many,  of  them- 
selves not  less  weak,  not  less  feeble  than  thyself, 
have  safely  reached  there  even  now.  Take  courage, 
and  proceed  thou  cheerfully. 

3.  My  Child,  yield  to  no  immoderate  fear:  united 
with  Me,  thou  canst  efficaciously  and  easily  guard 
against  falling. 

Whence  arises  the  beginning  of  ruin  if  not  from 
lukewarmness?  For,  when  the  soul  languishes  with 
lukewarmness,  things  spiritual  must  needs  become 
unsavory  and  unpleasant,  and  nature  desire  and  seek 
its  own. 

Then  man,  by  the  propensity  of  his  nature,  be- 


678 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


gins  to  neglect  watchfulness  over  the  powers  of  his 
soul  and  the  senses  of  his  body;  yea,  in  order  to  en- 
tertain his  failing  heart,  he  gives  a freer  scope  to 
them,  and  occasionally  exposes  them  to  the  allure- 
ments of  sin;  at  first,  not  without  some  dread,  but, 
by  degrees,  in  a bolder  manner. 

And  hence,  by  three  steps,  he  falls  into  destruc- 
tion. At  the  first,  he  acts  carelessly,  until  he  finds 
himself  in  the  proximate  danger  of  sin:  at  the  sec- 
ond, he  does  not  strive  to  pray  earnestly,  and  im- 
plore the  divine  grace  that  he  may  escape  the  dan- 
ger, that  he  may  not  be  overcome  by  sin;  at  the 
third,  alone  and  defenseless,  in  the  midst  of  ene- 
mies, from  within  and  from  without,  conspiring 
against  him,  he  plays,  and  he  amuses  himself,  as  it 
were,  with  the  charming  monster,  when,  behold!  he 
is  overpowered,  and  rolls  headlong  into  the  abyss. 

4.  By  what  other  means,  My  Child,  canst  thou 
more  securely  and  more  easily  avert  such  evils,  than 
by  the  saving  Sacrament,  which  unites  thee  with 
Me,  binds  thee  with  the  chain  of  love,  and  makes 
thee  a partaker  of  My  own  strength? 

What  is  there  so  well  suited  to  drive  lukewarm- 
ness away  from  thy  soul,  as  frequent  and  devout 
Communion ; through  which  the  fervor  of  divine 
love  enters,  and  takes  wholly  possession  of  thee? 

Yea,  if,  during  the  time  intervening  between 
Communion,  any  beginning  of  lukewarmness  make 
its  appearance,  a new  and  devout  receiving  of  the 
Sacrament  removes  it,  and  restores  the  first  fervor. 
For  heat  and  cold,  fervor  and  tepidity,  cannot  dwell 
together  in  the  heart. 

Nay  more,  My  Child,  a holy  Communion  recalls 
the  whole  man  to  nterior  things,  and  brings  to- 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


679 


gether  all  the  powers  of  his  soul  and  the  senses  of 
his  body,  to  celebrate  with  Me,  in  peace  and  glad- 
ness, the  sacred  banquet. 

But  the  propensity  of  corrupt  nature  does  not 
lead  to  this;  for  it  is  itself  also  curbed  in  the  divine 
mystery,  which  soothes  the  passions  of  the  soul  and 
tranquilizes  the  ill-regulated  motions  of  the  body. 

Here,  heavenly  delights,  whilst  they  satiate* 
awaken  a longing  for  them:  and  worldly  pleasures, 
if  any  were  tasted  before,  produce  such  a loathing 
that  the  desire  of  them  appears  base  and  unworthy. 

Wherefore,  being  frequently  renewed  in  spirit 
through  Communion,  and  self-collected  in  Me, 
taught  by  the  experience  of  thy  own  heart,  thou 
wilt  understand  how  much  thou  art  obliged,  and 
of  how  great  an  importance  it  is  to  thee,  to  be 
faithful. 

On  this  account,  during  the  intervals  of  thy  Com- 
munions, thou  wilt  endeavor  to  be  on  thv  s^iard, 
and  not  expose  thyself,  of  thy  own  accord,  to  dan- 
ger. And,  if  at  any  time  thou  findest  thyself  in  a 
necessary  or  unforeseen  danger;  by  reason  of  thy 
wonted  intimacy  with  Me,  which  thou  hast  learnt 
in  Communion,  and  cherished  all  along,  thou  wilt 
forthwith  have  recourse  to  -Me,  and  strive,  by  prayer 
and  supplication,  by  distrust  in  thyself  and  reliance 
upon  Me,  to  flee,  as  soon  as  possible,  from  the  dan- 
ger, and  to  unite  thyself  more  closely  with  Me. 

By  so  doing.  My  Child,  thou  shalt  walk  upon 
the  asp  and  the  basilisk,  and  thou  shalt  trample 
under  foot  the  lion  and  the  dragon,  and  avoid  every 
monster  of  sin,  and,  at  last,  reach  thy  end  safe  and 
unharmed 

5.  Wherefore,  unless  thou  art  often  nourished 


Cfoo 


fHE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


with  My  Body  and  Blood,  in  the  Sacrament;  ana 
unless  thou  dost  sufficiently  co-operate  with  the 
grace  of  the  Sacrament,  thou  shalt  not  persevere 
in  the  supernatural  life. 

This  co-operation  is,  however,  made  sweet  and 
easy  through  Communion,  by  reason  of  the  peculiar 
grace  given  for  this  end  in  the  Sacrament,  and  on 
account  of  the  special  love  infused  from  My  Heart, 
whereby  everything  is  alleviated  and  sweetened. 

Behold,  then,  how  thou  mayst  secure  for  thyself, 
through  a frequent,  devout,  and  holy  Communion, 
the  gift  of  gifts,  final  perseverance. 

Come  then,  My  Child;  it  is  a matter  of  supreme 
importance  to  thee:  be  brave  and  magnanimous,  as 
is  befitting  a Disciple  of  My  Heart.  Faithfully 
employ  the  means:  keep  thyself  constantly  united 
with  Me:  thus  thou  shalt  attain  to  those  boundless 
and  precious  blessings,  which  now  accompany 
holy  perseverance,  and  will  follow  it  throughout 
eternity. 

6.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple — How  limitless,  how 
precious,  Lord  Jesus,  are  those  blessings!  They 
are  so  great,  that,  for  them,  Thy  Saints  gave  up 
willingly  everything,  and  that,  when  tasting  them, 
they  frequently  shed  tears  in  the  excess  of  their 
blissfulness. 

How,  then,  could  I be  willing  to  exchange  things 
so  full  of  bliss  for  the  miseries  of  sin?  how  could 
I abandon  charity,  love  of  Thee,  for  the  love  of  the 
enemy  of  my  happiness? 

For,  I shall  not  lose  those  things  which  are  the 
effect  and  fruit  of  charity,  unless  I first  abandon, 
unless  I first  expel  charity  itself  from  my  heart 
For,  of  itself,  charity  never  falls  away. 


CHAPTER  XXIV. 


681 


Thou  didst  love  me  first,  O most  kind  Jesus. 
Thou  earnest  first:  but  behold!  Thou  wilt  not  be 
the  first  to  withdraw:  Thou  wilt  not  forsake  me 
first,  unless  I myself  first  forsake  Thee.  So  kind 
is  the  goodness  of  Thy  Heart! 

O Jesus!  suffer  me  not  to  leave  Thee.  Without 
Thee,  what  is  there  for  me  but  darkness,  and  grief, 
and  anguish,  and  bitterness,  and  misery,  and  never- 
ending  death. 

Oh!  allow  not  evils  so  great  to  befall  me.  Grant, 
O Lord,  grant,  I beseech  Thee,  that,  united  with 
Thee,  I may  rather  die  any  death  of  the  body  what- 
soever, than  lose  Thee,  the  life  of  my  soul,  the 
fountain  of  all  blessings. 

By  Thy  Heart,  by  the  Heart  of  Thy  Virgin- 
Mother,  by  whatever  is  pleasing  to  Thee  in  heaven 
and  on  earth,  I beg  and  entreat  Thee,  grant  me 
perseverance;  bestow  grace,  add  courage,  that  I 
may  efficaciously  employ  the  means  Thou  hast 
given. 

7 . I am,  indeed,  weak  and  infirm,  O Lord;  but 
Thou  art  all-powerful  and  good.  Assist  me,  there- 
fore, and  strengthen  me.  Be  Thou  unto  me  a Sav- 
iour-God, and  Thy  Heart  a house  of  refuge  to  save 
me. 

O Jesus,  good  Shepherd!  for  Thy  Name’s  sake, 
do  Thou  lead  me,  and  nourish  me  with  Thyself,  do 
Thou  refresh  me  with  the  living  waters  gushing  out 
of  Thy  Heart,  that  I may  cheerfully  continue  to 
follow  Thee. 

O Jesus,  heavenly  Physician!  have  pity  on  me, 
heal  my  frequent  infirmities,  repair  my  shortcom- 
ings, restore  my  vigor,  that  I may  not  grow  faint 
on  the  way. 


682 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


O Jesus,  my  Teacher!  teach  me  to  do  Thy  Will; 
guide  my  way  even  unto  the  end. 

O Jesus,  my  Beloved!  entertain  Thou  me,  com- 
fort me  in  my  afflictions,  help  me  in  my  difficulties, 
incite  me,  urge  me  on  to  proceed  and  to  persevere. 

O Jesus,  divine  Bridegroom  of  my  soul!  hold 
me  closer  to  Thee:  draw  me  after  Thee:  behold! 
being  willingly  drawn,  I will  run  by  Thy  strength: 
I will  run  unwearied  to  the  secure  and  everlast- 
ing possession  of  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 

THROUGH  HOLY  COMMUNION  THE  MOST  SACRED 

HEART  OF  JESUS  GIVES  US  A PLEDGE  OF  FUTURE 

GLORY. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — He  that  eats  My  Flesh, 
and  drinks  My  Blood,  has  everlasting  life:  and  I 
will  raise  him  up  on  the  last  day. 

Behold,  My  Child,  a great  mystery,  but  a great 
mystery  of  love,  a great  mystery  of  consolation. 

For,  here  in  the  most  holy  Sacrament,  thou  re- 
ceivest  both  the  medicine  of  immortality,  and  the 
symbol  of  resurrection. 

Hence,  not  only  the  soul,  vivified  and  sanctified 
through  Me,  attains  to  the  life  forever  blissful,  but 
even  the  body,  corruptible  and  obscure,  united  and 
incorporated  with  My  life-giving  and  glorious  Body 
obtains  never-ending  glory  and  immortality. 

Wherefore,  not  merely  on  account  of  sanctifying 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


683 


grace,  but  also  for  a new  reason,  for  the  sake  of  the 
holy  Communion,  will  I make  thy  soul  forever  joy- 
ous and  blissful,  reform  thy  body,  render  it  like 
unto  My  Body,  and  adorn  it,  in  a peculiar  manner, 
with  glorious  properties. 

Lo,  My  Child,  the  most  delightful  and  most  mar- 
velous fruit  of  Communion — which  completes  and 
crowns  all  the  others. 

2.  My  Child,  when  the  goodness  of  My  Heart 
wishes  to  display  all  Its  magnificence,  behold  ! all 
Its  other  qualities  and  virtues  are  at  hand,  and 
concur  and  vie  to  ennoble  and  perfect  the 
object. 

Now,  in  the  holy  Sacrament  of  the  Eucharist,  the 
love  of  My  Heart  has  decreed,  so  to  manifest  the 
grandeur  of  Its  munificence,  that  Its  most  glorious 
fruits  should  endure  for  all  eternity. 

Do  not  then  marvel,  if  this  mystery  overflows 
with  prodigies  so  great  and  numberless,  if  it  pos- 
sesses so  rich  an  abundance  of  blessings;  if  the 
whole  is  sublime,  holy,  delightful,  replenished  with 
consolation. 

A very  great  miracle,  indeed,  is  here  promised  to 
thee,  that  thou  shalt  live  not  merely  in  soul,  but 
also  in  body,  through  all  eternity ; but  this  is  less 
than  that  which  has  already  been  done  for  thee. 
For  it  is,  assuredly,  less  that  a person  should  live 
in  eternity,  than  that  God  should  die  in  time  ; it  is 
less,  that  man  should  be  raised  up  unto  a glorious 
life  in  heaven,  than  that  God  should  be  lowered 
unto  a hidden  life  in  the  Sacrament. 

And  why  should  not  the  member  rise  again,  when 
the  Head  is  risen  ? And  why  should  not  he  live 
forever,  who  possesses  in  himself  everlasting  life? 


684 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


Wherefore,  when  I,  thy  Life,  shall  appear,  then 
thou  also  shalt  appear  with  Me  in  glory. 

3.  Behold,  My  Child,  in  the  Sacrament  thou 
hast  the  pledge  of  this  ever- enduring  glory,  a 
pledge  not  of  an  ordinary  kind,  but  one  which  is 
equivalent  to  the  promise. 

See,  therefore,  how  great  an  assurance  of  thy 
future  blissfulness,  My  heavenly  Father,  on  His 
part,  has  given  to  thee,  when  He  gave,  in  so  won- 
derful a manner,  His  only-begotten  Son  as  a hos- 
tage ! 

And  what  must  wholly  complete  thy  joy  and 
consolation,  is  that,  in  this  pledge  itself,  thou  hast 
wherewith,  on  thy  part,  thou  mayst  not  render  un- 
certain that  most  delightful  assurance. 

What  then  remains,  My  Child,  except  to  be 
thankful  and  faithful,  to  rejoice  in  the  goodness  of 
My  Heart,  to  delight  in  the  blessings  poured  out 
upon  thee,  and,  as  often  as  thou  receivest  Me,  to 
call  to  mind,  with  gladness,  that  everlasting  beati- 
tude of  which  thou  possessest  the  pledge,  which 
thou  enjoyest  by  anticipation  ? 

When  that  which  is  promised  shall  come,  the  use 
of  the  Sacrament  shall  cease ; and  thou  shalt  not 
now  have  an  anticipated  partaking  of  bliss,  but 
thou  shalt  possess  the  plenitude  itself  of  bliss — 
thou  shalt  enter  into  it,  and  be  penetrated  by  the 
same. 

Then,  faith  shall  yield  to  sight,  hope  to  complete 
fruition:  and  abiding  charity  shall  burst  forth  into 
never-ending  joys.  In  that  beatitude  of  thine,  thou 
shalt  breathe  naught  save  love,  thou  shalt  speak 
naught  save  love,  thou  shalt  do  naught  but  love : 
for  thou  shalt  be  in  the  pure  realm  of  love. 


CHAPTER  XXV. 


685 


4.  The  Sacrament  of  love  leads  to  the  realm  of 
love:  the  more  love  has  been  nourished  here,  and 
the  more  perfectly  it  has  been  kindled  in  thy  heart 
in  time ; the  more  will  it  there  enrapture  thee, 
and  the  more  gloriously  will  it  shine  in  thee  during 
all  eternity. 

Wherefore,  My  Child,  live  thou  resigned  by  love,  un- 
til the  shadows  of  mortality  decline,  and  the  day  of  im- 
mortality dawn : advance  thou  peacefully  by  pure  love. 

Whatsoever  thou  beholdest  around  thee,  whether 
things  prosperous  or  adverse,  view  them  with  the 
same  eye  of  pure  love,  being,  amidst  them  all,  solely 
intent  upon  Me,  in  whom  thou  possessest  life,  and 
resurrection,  and  beatitude. 

If  thou  feelest  this  mortal  life  heavy  wTith  mis- 
eries, know  that  thou  wilt  all  the  more  relish  thy 
future  bliss,  the  more  thou  hast  experienced  the 
miseries  of  the  present  life;  and  that  thou  wilt  re- 
pose the  more  sweetly  upon  My  Breast  in  heaven, 
the  more  hardships  thou  hast  endured,  for  love  of 
Me,  upon  earth. 

Meanwhile,  Child,  be  cheerful  and  valiant:  re- 
pair thy  strength  and  courage  by  the  life-giving 
Sacrament;  for  love  of  Me,  remain  conformed  to 
My  good  pleasure,  in  life  and  in  death. 

5.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple . — O excess  of  good 
ness!  O Jesus!  who  can  comprehend,  in  this  life, 
what  a Heart  Thou  hast! 

Behold!  Thou  givest  Thyself  to  me  in  the  Sac- 
rament, to  procure  for  me  in  abundance  all  things 
desirable  in  time,  and,  together  with  this,  Thou 
givest  Thyself  to  me  as  the  pledge  of  the  everlast- 
ing bliss,  which,  by  a gratuitous  liberality,  TJvou 
hast  promised  to  me. 


686 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK- 


Thanks  to  Thee,  most  kind  Jesus,  endless  thanks 
to  Thee,  for  so  great  a charity  of  Thy  Heart. 

With  all  my  heart  do  I rejoice  at  so  great,  so 
precious  a gift,  so  gently  and  so  lovingly  bestowed, 
whereby  Thou  givest  me  the  sweetest  confidence 
of  my  everlasting  salvation. 

I beg,  O Lord,  my  God,  I humbly  beg  of  Thee, 
that  Thou  wouldst  grant  me  efficacious  grace,  that 
my  election  to  the  glory  of  heaven,  so  certainly  and 
so  divinely  pledged  on  Thy  part,  may  not  be  made 
void;  but  that,  on  my  part,  through  my  faithfulness, 
good  works,  and  true  merits,  it  may,  in  like  mam 
mer,  become  certain. 

6.  O most  sweet  Jesus!  with  how  much  fervor  and 
cheerfulness  ought  I to  serve  Thee:  with  how  great  a 
courage  to  walk  the  roughest  roads;  with  how  great 
a love  to  cling  to  Thee;  that  I may  reach  those 
unspeakable  joys  whereof  I have  here  a foretaste, 
and  whereof  I possess  here  so  sweet  a pledge  ? 

Ah,  Jesus,  my  Beloved,  purest  Bridegroom  of  my 
soul!  if  it  is  so  delightful  to  enjoy  Thee  in  my  ex^ 
ile,  what  shall  it  be  in  my  own  true  country?  if 
Thy  consolations  are  so  sweet  in  the  Sacrament, 
what  shall  they  be  in  Thy  kingdom?  if,  whilst 
Thou  art  here  vailed,  Thy  embraces  so  enrapture 
the  heart,  what  shall  they  do  when  I behold  Thee 
face  to  face,  wThen  I recline  upon  Thy  Heart,  when 
I am  satiated  and  inebriated  from  the  torrent  of 
Thy  delights? 

O my  God!  when  I think  on  this,  whatsoever  I 
find  upon  earth  becomes  burdensome  and  weari- 
some to  me. 

Life  itself  loses  all  pleasure,  since  naught  there- 
in can  wholly  satisfy,  or  completely  satiate  me. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


687 


Nay,  even  Thy  consolations  themselves  and  Thy 
very  sweetness  afflict  me  with  a marvelous  and  un- 
utterable pain;  because  they  cause  me  to  know 
Thee  more  distinctly,  and  to  thirst  with  more  eager- 
ness after  Thee,  the  fountain  of  all  consolations, 
and  of  every  delight. 

After  Thee,  O my  Jesus!  after  Thee  do  I thirst: 
Thee  do  I wish  to  behold  unvailed:  upon  Thee 
in  Thy  glory  I desire  to  gaze:  Thee,  with  all  the 
ardor  of  my  soul,  do  I long  to  enjoy  by  everlast- 
ing love. 

Come  then,  O my  love,  come  Thou:  burn  me: 
wholly  consume  me:  dissolve  me,  that  I may  be 
with  Thee,  O Thou  my  sole  desire,  my  only  good! 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 

RECAPITULATION. 

THE  MOST  SACRED  HEART  OF  JESUS  IS  OUR  ALL. 

i.  The  voice  of  Jesus. — My  Child,  My  Heart, 
which  thou  possessest  in  the  most  Blessed  Sacra- 
ment as  the  pledge  of  future  glory,  and  which  in 
heaven  will  be  thy  beatitude,  is  meanwhile,  so  long 
as  thou  sojournest  on  earth,  all  things  to  thee. 

For  It  is  wholly,  with  all  It  possesses,  delivered 
up  to  thee,  for  thy  use  and  enjoyment. 

Now  this  Heart,  as  It  consists  of  a human  nature, 
is  indeed  human,  and  can,  therefore,  feel  for  thee 
in  a human  manner;  but,  as  It  is  hypostatically 


688 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


united  with  the  divine  Nature,  It  is,  at  the  same 
time,  divine, — is  the  Heart  of  a divine  Person,  and, 
consequently,  possesses  that  which  is  divine  and 
infinite. 

Behold,  then,  the  fountain  of  all  blessings,  al- 
ways accessible,  always  gushing,  whence  thou  canst 
ever  draw,  but  wdiich  thou  canst  never  drain. 

Here,  My  Child,  here  shalt  thou  find  whatsoever 
is  necessary,  whatsoever  is  useful  to  thee. 

If  at  any  time  thou  growest  cool  in  spirit,  here 
thou  shalt  be  kindled  again,  here  thou  shalt  be  re- 
newed interiorly,  here  thou  shalt  recover  inward 
vigor. 

If  thou  hast  offended,  here  thou  shalt  find  mercy, 
here  thou  shalt  obtain  forgiveness,  here  thou  shalt 
regain  peace. 

If  thou  art  languishing  through  weakness,  here 
tfiou  shalt  be  restored,  here  thou  shalt  be  strength- 
ened, here  thou  shalt  be  invigorated  with  a divine 
power. 

If  thou  needest  counsel,  or  courage,  or  assistance, 
here  thou  shalt  obtain  it  in  abundance. 

If  thou  desirest  some  divine  grace,  some  useful 
favor,  some  genuine  comfort,  here  thou  shalt  find 
the  same. 

Whatsoever,  finally,  is  conducive  to  thy  real 
happiness,  thou  shalt  here  secure,  at  any  time  and 
in  any  place,  in  health  and  in  sickness,  in  life  and 
in  death. 

2.  Moreover,  My  Child,  in  the  Sacrament,  My 
Heart  is,  likewise,  a pattern  of  every  virtue  and  oi 
all  sanctity. 

Contemplate  with  the  eyes  of  faith,  love,  and 
imitate  the  virtues  of  My  Heart  all  reduced  to 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


689 


unity,  and  yet  remaining  separate.  One  and  the 
same  love  combines,  ennobles,  and  displays  them 
all. 

See  here  the  gentleness  of  the  love  of  My  Heart, 
Its  humble  charity.  Behold  here  truly  the  Heart 
of  a hidden  God,  who  emptied  Himself:  but  to 
what  an  extent  did  He  empty  Himself!  the  more 
deeply  thou  shalt  meditate  hereon,  the  deeper  thou 
shalt  find  the  abyss  of  that  humility,  and  the  better 
thou  shalt  perceive  the  magnitude  of  that  kindness, 
whereby  My  Heart,  ever  gentle,  ever  meek  toward 
all,  undergoes  and  endures  so  much  for  love  of 
thee. 

Look  at  Its  piety.  Consider  how  It  devotes  It- 
self to  the  service  of  God  Its  Father:  how  It  con- 
secrates Itself  to  His  interests:  how  It  is  ever  busy 
with  the  things  that  belong  to  His  good  pleasure. 

Look  at  Its  poverty.  Look  into  the  innermost 
of  this  Heart,  what  are  Its  sentiments  in  regard  to 
the  possessions  of  this  world.  See  how  It  uses 
them.  See  how  It  is  destitute  of  what  is  suitable. 
Behold  here  the  model  of  holy  poverty. 

See  Its  purity.  Yea,  My  Child,  behold  and  ob- 
serve, how  It  possesses  a Body,  made  in  some  man- 
ner spiritual,  like  the  ray  of  the  sun,  pure  always 
and  everywhere:  behold  and  observe  in  what 
manner  It  employs  Its  senses:  behold  and  observe 
how  holy  are  all  Its  affections.  Lo,  the  mirror  of 
purity. 

See  Its  obedience.  Behold  and  be  astonished, 
My  Child.  Lo!  at  the  voice  of  a simple  creature, 
at  the  word  of  the  priest,  I am  ready,  with  My 
Heart  prepared  for  everything:  and  even  if  the 
priest  speak  for  the  sake  of  sordid  gain,  yea,  even 


690 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


if  he  be  wicked,  as  soon  as  he  has  uttered  the 
words  of  holy  Consecration,  I am  present,  with  My 
Heart  disposed  to  all  things.  In  what  place 
soever  I may  be  put,  there  I rest,  with  My  Heart 
resigned.  In  what  manner  soever  I am  treated, 
although  I am  not  insensible,  I yet  am  and  remain 
full  of  bliss.  This,  My  Child,  is  the  pattern  of 
perfect  obedience. 

See  Its  prudence.  Examine  devoutly,  how  great 
a prudence  It  teaches  thee,  in  the  sacred  Taber- 
nacle, by  Its  example,  in  devoting  and  applying 
the  means  to  the  end:  how  great  a prudence  in  the 
choice  of  companions,  since  It  dwells  ever  among 
Angels;  how  great  a prudence  in  manifesting  affec- 
tions, whether  of  liking  or  dislike. 

See  Its  justice.  Contemplate,  how  It  refers  Its 
Sacramental  life,  and  Its  every  occupation  to  God, 
to  whom  all  is  due.  Examine  and  observe,  with 
how  great  a fidelity  It  directs  all  things,  great  and 
small,  to  the  divine  glory. 

See  Its  fortitude.  Mark  Its  virtue,  in  enduring, 
with  an  even  and  unconquered  mind,  every  hard- 
ship, as  well  from  the  faithful,  from  sinners,  from 
the  lukewarm,  and  from  all  the  ungrateful,  as  from 
the  places  wherein  It  is  left,  or  neglected,  or  even 
treated  with  indignity:  in  persevering  in  the  under- 
takings of  divine  love,  in  spite  of  every  opposition 
and  contrariety:  in  making  use  of  things  adverse 
themselves  to  manifest  a purer  love  for  God  and 
for  man. 

See  Its  moderation  or  discretion.  It  distinguishes 
between  the  person  who  sins  and  the  sin  of  the 
person.  Knowing  that  man  is  the  work  of  God, 
but  sin  the  work  of  man,  It  desires  and  seeks,  with 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


691 


unwearied  patience,  to  destroy  the  sin  and  to  save 
the  man.  It  distinguishes  between  nature  and 
grace,  between  the  appearance  of  things  and  the 
reality.  It  distinguishes  between  good  and  good, 
and  approves  of  that  as  better,  which  the  divine 
Will  actually  requires  or  prefers. 

See  Its  zeal.  It  burns  here  with  the  desire  of 
saving  souls,  seizes  every  opportunity,  and  labors 
in  a marvelous  manner.  For  this  object,  It  pours 
forth  prayers,  night  and  day:  for  this,  It  shows 
an  example  of  forbearance,  of  mercy,  of  every 
virtue:  for  this,  It  speaks  to  souls  in  many  and 
various  ways:  for  this,  at  one  time  It  inspires  and 
moves;  at  another,  It  presses  and  urges.  Thus  It 
teaches  a zeal  possible  for  all,  easy  for  them  that 
love. 

See  Its  generosity.  Behold  what  It  gives,  and 
with  how  great  a cheerfulness:  lol  It  gives  not 
only  gladly  what  It  has,  but  even  what  It  is;  not 
only  Its  graces,  but  also  Its  merits;  and — more 
than  all — Its  very  Self.  See  what  It  sacrifices,  and 
with  what  nobleness  of  love.  See  what  consola- 
tion It  feels,  when,  for  the  divine  glory,  It  com- 
forts the  heart  of  man. 

See  Its  perseverance.  Here,  in  holiness,  It 
spends  year  after  year,  nay,  age  after  age.  Com- 
pare with  this  the  time  of  thy  perseverance,  during 
the  short  space  of  a lifetime.  It  perseveres,  not 
like  thyself — now  growing  lukewarm  then  again 
fervent, — but  ever  with  the  same  fervor.  It  perse- 
veres with  gladness,  because  It  perseveres  out  of 
love. 

Behold,  My  Child,  the  crown  of  sanctity,  the 
crown  of  the  twelve  constellations, — which  embrace 


692 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


all  the  stars  of  virtue, — wherewith  My  Heart  is 
adorned,  and  in  each  of  which  love  is  twinkling 
and  glittering. 

For  it  is  the  love  of  My  Heart  that  is  humble, 
that  is  meek,  that  is  pious,  that  is  poor,  that  is 
pure,  that  is  obedient,  that  is  prudent,  that  is  just, 
that  is  long-suffering,  that  is  discreet,  that  by  its 
zeal  promotes  faith,  hope,  charity;  that  is  generous 
and  ennobles  all  things,  that  is  ever  persevering. 

3.  Lastly,  My  Child,  My  Heart  is  the  Way,  the 
Guide,  and  the  Gate  of  heaven. 

The  most  safe  Way,  by  following  which  thou 
canst  not  err:  the  shortest  Way,  because  the 
straightest:  the  most  pleasant  and  most  easy  Way, 
because  the  Way  of  love:  the  Way,  in  fine,  wherein 
all  My  Saints  have  walked,  and  whosoever  walks 
therein  wall  become  a Saint. 

The  Guide,  who  wall  protect  thee  on  every  occa- 
sion, and  ward  off  all  danger  from  thee:  who  will 
assist  thee  with  manifold  grace,  and  reinvigorate 
thee  with  the  very  Bread  of  Angels:  who  will  en- 
tertain and  sanctify  thee  with  the  display  of  mys- 
teries, through  which  he  will  lead  thee,  and  by 
which  he  will  keep  thy  mind  and  heart  occupied  in 
a pleasant  and  holy  manner, — advancing  from  mys- 
tery to  mystery,  from  virtue  to  virtue,  from  one 
degree  of  holiness  to  another, — until  thou  reachest 
the  kingdom  of  heaven. 

The  Gate,  beside  which  there  is  none  other, 
through  which  thou  canst  be  admitted  into  heaven: 
the  Gate,  through  which  alone  entrance  is  giver  : 
the  Gate,  through  which,  if  any  one  do  enter,  he 
shall  be  saved  and  blissful  forever. 

Beware,  therefore,  My  Child,  lest  thou  hearken 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


^93 


to  them  that  say,  that  there  is  a higher  and  better 
road  for  more  perfect  souls;  a way,  not  of  My 
Heart,  but  of  the  mere  Godhead,  a way,  which, — set- 
ting aside  or  overlooking  My  Humanity, — can  lead 
thee  in  a sublime  manner  to  thy  end,  through  the 
Divinity  alone. 

Whosoever  says  this  to  thee,  be  he  a man  or  an 
Angel,  believe  him  not,  trust  him  not. 

For,  through  My  Humanity,  I came  to  men: 
and,  through  this  same  Humanity,  must  men  come 
to  Me. 

Whosoever  tries  another  road  will  go  astray:  he 
shall  wander  about  amid  dryness  of  mind  and  dry- 
ness of  heart:  frequently,  destitute  of  inward  oc- 
cupation and  entertainment,  he  shall  become  ex- 
hausted; yea,  he  shall  be  in  danger,  at  last,  of 
falling  away  altogether. 

But  thou,  My  Child,  be  thou  mindful  of  My 
Heart,  wherein  thou  shalt  find  all  things.  Here 
do  thou  frequently  resort  to  Me:  here  be  often  in 
My  presence:  here  pray,  give  thanks,  praise, 
hearken  to  My  words,  meditate  on  My  Heart: 
gaze  upon  Me  abiding  with  thee,  offering  thee  all 
things. 

Come  then,  My  Child,  yet  a little  while,  and 
thou  shalt  repose  secure  upon  My  Heart  forever. 
Meanwhile,  occupy  thyself  with  Me,  and  I will  oc- 
cupy Myself  with  thee. 

Hold  thyself  in  readiness:  for  coming  I will 
come,  and  take  thee  up  with  Me  into  My  everlast- 
ing kingdom. 

4.  The  voice  of  the  Disciple. — Yea,  most  loving 
and  most  lovely  Jesus,  until  Thou  comest,  I will 
ever  be  mindful  of  Thy  Heart;  in  It  will  I live,  in 


694 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


It  will  I busy  myself  with  Thee,  in  It  will  I hold 
myself  in  readiness. 

How  could  I ever  forget  that  Heart,  to  which  I 
owe  everything,  and  in  which  I find  all  things? 

Behold,  O infinite  sweetness  1 henceforth,  Thy 
Heart  shall  be  my  rest,  my  true  bliss. 

Here  will  I repose  the  more  safely,  and  securely 
and  pleasantly,  O Lord  my  God,  the  wiser,  the 
more  powerful,  the  more  delightful  Thou  art. 

If  the  world  lays  snares,  if  the  devil  tempts,  my 
heart  shall  not  be  troubled;  for  its  abode  is  in 
peace,  since  it  dwells  in  the  aid  of  the  Most  High, 
in  Thy  very  Heart  Itself. 

O my  soul:  how  intimately  shalt  thou  be  united 
with  thy  God  in  the  Heart  of  Jesus!  how  perfectly 
present  to  Him!  There  shalt  thou  be  ever  with 
Him:  thou  shalt  live  blissful  in  Him,  gazing  upon 
Him  not  in  figure,  but  infused  into  thee;  loving 
Him  not  as  appearing  to  thee,  but  working  in  thee; 
possessing  Him  not  as  holding  Him,  but  as  pos- 
sessed by  Him. 

In  this  Paradise  of  most  pure  delights,  thou 
shalt  overflow  with  uninterrupted  bliss,  ceaselessly 
enjoying  the  good  things  of  the  Heart  of  Jesus, 
the  Lord  thy  God. 

O Heart  of  my  Jesus!  Heart  of  my  God!  true 
heaven,  everlasting  repose  of  all  the  Elect!  be  it 
but  granted  to  me,  that  I may  always  dwell  in  Thee, 
enjoy  Thee;  naught  on  earth  shall  be  wanting  to 
my  bliss. 

For  Thou  art  the  safeguard  and  security  of  them 
that  dwell  in  Thee:  Thou  art  the  reward  and  glory 
of  them  that  persevere  in  Thee:  Thou  art  the  joy 
and  delight  of  them  that  enjoy  Thee. 


CHAPTER  XXVI. 


695 


In  Thee  is  the  light  of  the  mind,  the  fortitude 
of  the  heart,  the  salvation  of  the  soul,  the  perfec- 
tion of  sanctity,  the  completion  of  beatitude. 

O Heart  of  my  Beloved:  in  which  there  are 
infinitely  more  and  better  things  than  the  mind  can 
understand,  or  the  heart  can  grasp;  why  should  I 
seek  for  aught  that  is  good  outside  of  Thee  ? 
Behold!  in  Thee  are  all  blessings. 

5.  Wherefore,  most  kind  Jesus,  in  Thy  Heart 
is  for  me  the  life  of  bliss:  and  O may  death  not 
find  me  except  in  Thy  Heart!  Oh!  that  there 
I may,  at  last,  give  up  my  soul! 

Yea,  may  Thy  love  grant,  that,  henceforth,  1 
may  live,  in  Thy  Heart,  a life  as  it  were  dead, 
such  as  thou  livest  in  the  Sacrament! 

What  death  can  be  more  blissful  than  this  ? 
what  rest  is  there  comparable  to  this?  Behold! 
this  is  my  repose  in  that  death,  whereby  I desire 
to  be  disengaged  from  everything,  and,  by  pure 
love,  to  live  in  Thee  and  for  Thee  alone. 

O Jesus,  my  life  and  my  every  good:  being 
thus  perfectly  dead,  may  I live  for  Thee  so 
purely,  that,  when  comes  the  end  of  mortal  life, 
nothing  remains  for  me,  except  calmly  upon  Thy 
Heart  to  breathe  my  last! 

Let  my  last  sigh  be  the  sigh  of  Thy  own  expir- 
ing Heart : the  sigh  of  pure  love  resigned : let 
me  die  by  love,  as  also  Thou  didst  die!  let  me 
die  a holocaust  of  pure  love,  consumed  in  Thy 
Heart! 

Will  not  this  death,  O Lord  my  God,  be  a 
blissful  repose,  a sweet  slumber,  whereby  I fall 
asleep  upon  Thy  Heart  in  the  land  of  my  banish- 
ment, to  awake  upon  Thy  Heart  in  the  kingdom 


6g6 


THE  FOURTH  BOOK. 


of  glory,  to  rest  secure  and  rejoice  for  ever- 
more? 

Thus,  O thus,  my  Jesus  and  my  God!  thus  I 
wish:  thus  let  it  be,  I implore  Thee,  O Thou  my 
sole  desire,  my  Good  supreme! 

6.  O Heart  of  Jesus!  Thou  canst  not  be 
named,  without  enkindling:  nor  thought  of, 
without  consoling:  nor  seen  represented,  with- 
out cheering:  what,  then,  shall  it  be  to  gaze 
upon  Thee  unvailed,  to  embrace  Thee  in  truth, 
to  be  satiated  with  Thy  everlasting  joys? 

O beatitude  incomprehensible,  most  blissful 
life,  life  without  end,  without  change;  life  free 
from  all  discomfort,  replenished  with  all  bless- 
ings! how  I delight  in  the  remembrance  of  thee! 
how  I burn  with  longing  for  thee! 

Appear  Thou,  O do  appear,  O Jesus,  consum- 
mate blissfulness!  bid  me  enter  into  Thy  joys,  O 
Lord!  let  me  join  in  fellowship  with  the  choirs  of 
all  the  Angels  and  Saints,  and  begin,  with  them, 
the  ever-enduring  canticle  of  the  love  of  Thy 
Heart ! 

O beatitude  above  every  beatitude:  forever 
and  evermore,  may  I gaze  upon  Thee,  may  I love 
Thee,  may  I enjoy  Thee,  for  the  honor  and  joy 
of  Thy  Heart,  O Jesus,  O my  God  and  my  all! 


MEMENTO 


Whosoever  you  are,  Christian  soul,  remember,  how  greatly 
Jesus  Himself  has  recommended  the  devotion  to  His  most 
Sacred  Heart.  For,  appearing  to  the  Blessed  Margaret  Mary, 
He  said:  “Recommend  this  devotion  to  ecclesiastics  and  relig- 
ious, as  an  efficacious  means  of  attaining  to  sanctity,  the  per- 
fection of  their  state:  recommend  it  to  those  that  labor  for  the 
salvation  of  souls  as  a sure  help  to  move  even  the  most  obdu- 
rate hearts:  recommend  it,  in  fine,  to  all  the  faithful,  as  a most 
solid  devotion,  one  best  calculated  to  overcome  their  passions, 
to  secure  peace,  to  root  out  defects,  to  obtain  a fervent  love  of 
God,  and  to  reach  in  a short  time  a high  perfection.  My 
Heart  will  abundantly  pour  out  Its  riches  upon  all  that  devote 
themselves  to  the  same.”  (Month  of  the  S.  H.  of  J.,  with  the 
approb.  of  Abp.  Paris.) 

“This  devotion,”  says  St.  Alphonsus,  “ consists  wholly  in  the 
practical  love  for  Jesus.  Now,  this  love  is  the  devotion  of  de- 
votions. It  is  truly  to  be  lamented,  that  many  Christians  per- 
form various  exercises  of  piety,  but  neglect  this  devotion ; it  is 
deservedly  to  be  regretted,  that  there  are  many  preachers  and 
confessors,  who  inculcate  many  practices  of  piety;  and  never, 
or  almost  never,  mention  this  devotion,  which  yet  ought  to  be 
the  chief  one  of  every  Christian.  From  this  neglect  it  comes 
that  souls  make  so  little  progress  in  virtue,  continue  to  live  in 
the  same  defects,  and  relapse  even  into  grievous  sins.” 
(Introd.  Noven.  S.  H.  J.) 

Justly,  therefore,  does  that  Spouse  of  the  Sacred  Heart  ex- 
claim: “Why  cannot  I make  known  to  the  whole  world  those 
treasures  of  graces,  which  are  stored  up  in  the  Heart  of  Jesus, 
and  which  He  is  willing  to  pour  out  so  plentifully,  upon  them 
that  are  devoted  to  Him!  By  means  of  this  devotion,  He  in- 
tends to  preserve  souls  from  destruction,  and  to  establish  in 
them  the  reign  of  His  love , which  will  suffer  no  one  of  those 
consecrated  to  It  to  perish .”  (Blessed  Margaret  Mary.) 

697 


EPILOGUE. 


1.  Behold,  O Lord  Jesus,  by  a new  favor  of 
Thine,  which  Thou  hast  added  to  numberless  oth- 
ers, I have  accomplished,  what,  at  death’s  door, 
I had  vowed  to  Thy  Heart:  but  Thou  knowest 
how  imperfectly  I have  performed  it,  Thou  who 
art  a perfect  judge  of  Thy  gifts,  and  a perfect 
witness  of  my  ungratefulness.  O Jesus,  meek 
and  humble  of  Heart!  by  that  very  goodness  of 
Thy  Heart,  whereby  Thou  hast  bestowed  upon 
me  unworthy,  such  blessings,  I beg  and  implore 
Thee,  do  Thou  vouchsafe  to  forgive  all  my  short- 
comings and  my  ingratitude. 

2.  Relying  upon  the  known  kindness  of  Thy 
Heart,  I offer  to  Thee,  O most  benign  Jesus,  this 
debt  of  mine,  this  little  work  every  way  so  imper- 
fect; and  I earnestly  entreat  Thee,  to  accept  and 
bless  the  same,  and  to  pour  into  it  the  holy  unc- 
tion of  Thy  Heart;  that  thus  it  may  become  a rel- 
ishable  and  efficacious  means  of  attracting  hearts 
to  Thee,  of  purifying  them,  of  adorning  them  with 
Thy  virtues,  and  of  perfecting  them  by  Thy  sanc- 
tity, of  uniting  them  with  Thee,  of  consummat- 
ing them  in  Thee,  for  Thy  everlasting  glory. 

3.  Prostrate  before  Thee,  O Lord  my  God,  I 

698 


EPILOGUE. 


099 


earnestly  pray  for  all  those  that  shall  use  this  lit- 
tle work.  I ask  special  and  abundant  graces  for 
them  that  they  may  be  truly  Disciples  and  Apos- 
tles of  Thy  Heart,  meek  and  humble  of  heart,  and 
that  before  Thee  they  may  remember  me, — who 
am  not  worthy  to  be  called  a Disciple,  much  less 
an  Apostle  of  Thy  Heart, — that  they  may  pray 
for  me,  so  that  I may  save  and  sanctify  my  poor 
soul,  through  the  Imitation  of  Thy  most  Sacred 
Heart. 

4.  This  grace,  O Lord  Jesus,  I myself  do  ur- 
gently request.  For,  of  what  avail  is  it  to  know, 
that  Thou  art  meek  and  humble  of  Heart,  if  I 
myself  am  not  meek  and  humble  of  heart?  Of 
what  use  is  it  to  point  out  to  others  the  easy  and 
certain  path  of  salvation  and  holiness,  if  I myself 
become  a castaway? 

5.  Wherefore,  most  loving  and  most  lovely 
Jesus!  I pray  and  beseech  Thee,  by  the  Immacu- 
late Heart  of  Thy  Virgin  Mother,  and  by  Thy 
own  Heart,  crown  Thou  Thy  gifts  so  gratuitously, 
so  sweetly  bestowed  upon  me.  Grant  me  this 
choice  gift  that,  united  with  Thee  by  the  bond  of 
love,  I may  never  be  separated  from  Thee:  give 
me  this  perfect  gift,  that  I may  love  Thee 
perseveringly;  love  Thee  with  that  purity,  with 
which  the  holy  virgins  love  Thee;  with  that 
fidelity,  with  which  the  holy  Confessors  love 
Thee;  with  that  fervor,  with  which  the  Martyrs 
love  Thee;  with  that  zeal,  with  which  the  Apos- 
tles love  Thee;  finally,  with  that  love,  with  which 
the  Angels  love  Thee;  that  I may  repay  its  every 
love  to  the  love  of  Thy  Heart;  that,  in  every  way, 

may  atone  for  the  insults  ever  offered  to  Thy 


700 


EPILOGUE. 


Heart,  that,  having  perfectly  put  on  the  sentiments 
of  Thy  Heart,  I may  live  out  of  sole  love  for  Thee, 
until  I be  admitted  into  the  endless  kingdom  of  Thy 
love.  Amen. 


DATE  DUE 


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UNIVERSITY  PRODUCTS,  INC.  #859-5503 


BOSTON  COLLEGE 


3 9031 


323394  5 


